An old medicinal pastille box for throat ailments, whose Art Deco label advertises an "antiseptic & analgesic" preparation combining menthol, cocaine, and sodium borate. The detailed formula notably lists "Cocaine 0.001," an element particularly sought after for collections of ancient pharmacopoeia, regulated medicines, and medical curiosities.
✦ Estimated period: early 20th century, circa 1910-1925 ✦ Origin: France ✦ Dimensions: approx. 7.5 x 5 x 3 cm ✦ Material: lithographed tinplate ✦ Contents: empty box ✦ Condition: heavily used condition, with oxidation, numerous rust spots, scratches, and alterations to the decor; "Cocaine" inscriptions and formula still legible
This pharmaceutical cocaine box is a rare testimony to old throat preparations and a powerful item for a cabinet of medical curiosities.
