This is an Edwardian era advertising vesta or matchsafe with a truly hidden trick or puzzle opening mechanism, made of plated metal, & dating to around circa 1908 - 10.

The case is rectangular in form, with a ridged striking panel at one end.

The top of the case has an embossed Art Nouveau design with two corn sheafs, & the bottom has a geometric design to opposing corners. One edge is embossed with 'THE RONEO DUPLICATOR', & the other edge with 'THE RONEO LETTER COPIER'.

Roneo introduced the Letter Copier in 1906 & the Duplicator in 1908, so the case will date to around this period.

The case has a hidden, spring assisted opening mechanism & even upon very close inspection, there is no obvious way to open the case. The trick to opening the case is to grip the edges of the case, between thumb & forefinger, in one hand (at the striker end & with the 'Art Nouveau' side facing upwards), & then sharply tap the bottom of the case on the knuckle of your other hand, which causes the match compartment or drawer to spring open.

Condition is absolutely fantastic & it has almost certainly never been used.

The vesta measures approx 2" x 1 3/8" (approx 5.3cm x 3.5cm).

Overall, an original advertising trick vesta in truly remarkable condition.