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Beautiful set of antique British industrial document boxes / deed boxes
€150Bid from €75
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Private sellerProduct description
A beautiful, authentic set of two antique black metal deed boxes (also known as British 'deed boxes' or document safes). These boxes date from the late Victorian to Edwardian period (c. 1880 - 1920) and exude pure history. This specific type of box was standard practice for British legal and business firms of that era (read: lawyers/notaries (solicitors) or trading companies) to store the original title deeds, wills, and contracts of every major business client, wealthy family, or specific estate safely and separately in the office safe. G. Coleman (& Sons) was, in all likelihood, such a firm. The bottom box, bearing the inscription "G. COLEMAN Nº 3", is the oldest and points to the original founder, likely an independent professional or patriarch. The designation "Nº 3" was used to organize the archives, for example, for a specific major client or a third branch/cabinet. The top chest refers to the expansion of the company, when the sons joined the business and the enterprise was formally registered under British company law, resulting in the name changing to "Coleman & Sons (C.V.) Ltd.". The abbreviation (C.V.) may refer to the specific location of the branch (such as a place name in one of the British counties) to distinguish this office from other branches. The oldest chest is estimated to have been produced in the period 1880–1890, while the other likely dates from the period 1895–1905. The chests are in beautiful vintage condition with a lovely patina and signs of aging. The metal is structurally sound and absolutely NOT rusted through! Unfortunately, as with many of these boxes, the keys to both chests are missing. So, if you are looking for a great eye-catcher for an industrial, country, or modern interior, look no further. They are perfect for use as decorative storage, sturdy magazine racks, or unique styling pieces. Dimensions are as follows (WxHxD): G. Coleman No. 3: 42 x 26 x 31.5 cm; Coleman & Sons (C.V.) Ltd: 39.5 x 25.5 x 25 cm
Specifications
ConditionGoodColorsBlackMaterialMetalNumber of items2Height80 cmWidth50 cmDepth50 cmSigns of usageDiscoloring
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About this seller
Private sellerAntwerpen, BelgiumOn Whoppah since August 2026 • 0 sales