For your consideration an antique wooden presentation cigar box, specially commissioned for the Pennsylvania Central Co. This box represents the height of corporate luxury from the early 20th century, likely used in executive offices or elite passenger parlor cars. Construction: The box features high-quality hardwood construction with elegant mitered joinery. The lid is inset with a contrasting wood panel that serves as the canvas for its original historical graphics. Graphics & Markings: Center: Hand-lettered style inscription: Specially selected for Pennsylvania Central Co. The “V” Shield: A striking graphic on the left featuring a gold “V” draped in a patriotic American flag ribbon, a mark of premium quality. Heraldic Crest: An ornate, colorful double-headed eagle crest on the right, suggesting a prestigious or international tobacco source. Vinicola de Orizaba, ” indicating this was a “courtesy piece from a Mexican winery/distributor, showcasing early 20th-century international trade relations. Interior: Note: Mention if it is cedar-lined or if any original labels remain. Hardware: Features a front keyhole and sturdy rear hinges. Exterior: The wood retains a deep, warm patina. There is expected age-related wear, including minor surface scuffs and softening of the edges, which adds to its authentic character. There is some slight warping to the wood but it still opens and closes properly. Graphics: The transfers are remarkably well-preserved for their age, with the text and colors of the “V” and crest remaining legible and vibrant. Structure: The box is structurally sound with no major cracks or warping. The lid fits squarely. The Pennsylvania Central (associated with the vast Pennsylvania Railroad network) was the Standard Railroad of the World. Items specifically branded for the Pittsburgh hub are highly sought after, as Pittsburgh was the industrial heart of the line’s operations. This piece is not just a humidor; it is a relic of the “Gilded Age” of rail travel.
