Rare Liberty Cap Snuffbox
England, circa 1824 - 3 x 1½ inches
 
An exceptionally rare Sheffield plate snuffbox formed as a Liberty Cap, or Phrygian cap, among the most enduring symbols of the American and French Revolutions. Hinged at the base and opening to a fitted interior, the box transforms a potent political emblem into an inventive sculptural object.
 
The Liberty Cap was popularized in Revolutionary Boston by Paul Revere beginning in 1766 and later appeared on the first United States half cent issues of 1793–1797. The present example was likely produced for the American market during General Lafayette’s celebrated return tour of 1824–1825, when Revolutionary imagery experienced renewed popularity.
 
Condition: Excellent overall, with minor silver loss exposing the underlying copper on the cover, not visible when displayed upright.