Discover a remarkable piece of social and religious history with this antique Victorian oak collection box. Masterfully constructed from thick, solid English oak, this heavy-set box boasts a beautifully pronounced quarter-sawn grain and a rich, deep honey patina built up over more than a century of handling. This specific design bridges two worlds, making it a highly versatile collectable:
The Victorian Church Connection: Featuring dual coin slots on the lid, boxes of this style were traditionally used as parish alms or offertory boxes. The separate slots let the congregation split their tithes—often separating general church upkeep funds from charitable donations for the parish poor.
The Merchant's Till: Beyond ecclesiastical use, Victorian merchants, trade guilds, and shopkeepers favoured robust double-slot boxes like this. The distinct slots functioned as an early mechanical sorting till, helping a merchant securely split denominations of coinage (such as silver and copper) or divide daily trade takings from tax and rent reserves under lock and key. The lid is beautifully detailed with raised geometric panels and prominent, hand-turned wooden boss studs that give the piece a distinct, commanding Gothic Revival presence. It retains its original iron escutcheon plate on the front.
Nice antique condition with wonderful structural integrity. The oak shows minor historic surface wear, superficial scuffs, and gently softened edges consistent with age and authentic use.
No key included
Height: 7cm
Length: 17cm
Width: 8cm