Vintage Brass Pocket Ashtray

These small, portable containers were designed for smokers to dispose of ash and cigarette ends discreetly when on the go. It is made of brass and features ornate, engraved scrollwork on the lid. It has a small handle, which suggests it might function as a "silent butler" style portable ashtray with a hinged lid that opens to reveal the ash receptacle. These items were particularly popular in the mid-20th century, around the 1950s. The compact size allows it to be carried easily in a pocket or purse. I cleaned and polished it to show it's fabulous condition!