'A Halfpenny put into the Till, Press down the knob & your pipe then fill, When it is filled, without delay, Shut down the lid or Sixpence pay.’

A 19th century engraved brass tavern honesty box, with a central carrying handle flanked on one side by a coin slot and push button, with a hinged compartment the other side, on ball feet.

The larger side of the box was filled with tobacco and was opened by the weight of the coin on the opposite side.  They were used in pub and inns. Customers would buy tobacco this way in the early 19th century.

Circa 1820 – 1830 

7” high x 9” wide x 4 ½” deep

While these boxes are not unknown, I have never, ever, seen an engraved example.