This is a trick, or puzzle opening vesta / match holder, constructed of Nickel plated Brass, & made in the USA around 1894.

The case, which is slightly concave in design, looks impenetrable at first glance. There is no visible hinge.

The trick to open the case is to press down on the centre top of the lid - the pressure on this point rotates the edge inward while the opposite edge lifts to expose the interior of the case (the hinge is concealed within the case).

The front of the case has been hand engraved in script with : James Berry, Northampton, Aug 1894. The rear of the case is stamped MADE IN USA, & the interior of the case is stamped PAT APPLIED FOR (on the hinge covering).

I assume that the Northampton on the front of the case refers to the Massachusetts town, as opposed to the UK town of the same name.

Condition is absolutley fantastic for its 103 years, there is the expected plate loss, particularly around the centre top & striker area (where the opening mechanism is). The opening is perfect.

A very similar safe can be seen in the Schiffer Book 'Pocket Matchsafes', page 18, Fig 2/3, R1:3.

The case measures approx 5.3cm in length, 3.5cm in width,& 1cm deep.

It is unusual to find a case in this condition, as most of the cases of this design have been damaged by attempts to open them with all manner of implements.