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🏛️ Provenance
This vintage cigarette case was acquired directly from the historic Ferguson–Calderara House in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Built in 1904 for prominent lumber businessman Arthur Lee (A. L.) Ferguson and his wife, Mabel A. Ferguson, the residence remained connected to generations of family history. The home was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979, recognizing its architectural significance and connection to Fort Smith's heritage. Preserved in new old stock condition with its original presentation box, this piece offers an intriguing connection to the elegant personal accessories of the Art Deco period.
📝 Description
This elegant vintage new old stock (NOS) cigarette case captures the sophisticated styling of the Art Deco era, with a sleek black exterior, polished metal trim, and a decorative rhinestone accent. Dating stylistically to the 1930s, the case combines a minimalist rectangular silhouette with a beautifully detailed geometric embellishment, reflecting the streamlined luxury popular during the period.
The glossy black hard plastic exterior is accented by a rectangular silver-tone plaque adorned with clear rhinestones surrounding an intricate openwork floral and geometric design. A polished metal frame surrounds the case, with a small push-button clasp securing the hinged construction.
Opening the case reveals an attractive gold-toned interior with a faux woodgrain finish and two decorative spring-loaded metal retaining arms designed to hold cigarettes securely in place. The geometric cutouts along the retaining arms complement the case's Art Deco aesthetic, while the original spring mechanism and closure remain functional.
Particularly appealing is the survival of this piece in new old stock condition, accompanied by its original cream-colored paperboard presentation box, stamped "GOLD" along one side, likely identifying the original trim or finish option. The case has never been placed into regular use, retaining its beautifully preserved glossy exterior, original decorative detailing, and intact interior components. Its original packaging adds another dimension of historical interest rarely encountered with surviving accessories of this age.
An attractive example of vintage personal accessories, this NOS cigarette case would make a distinctive addition to an Art Deco collection, antique vanity display, or collection of early 20th-century smoking memorabilia.
✨ Highlights
• 🔵 Condition: New Old Stock (NOS) with Original Presentation Box
• 🕰️ Estimated Era: Art Deco, circa 1930s
• 🏛️ Origin: Historic Ferguson–Calderara House, Fort Smith, Arkansas
• 🖤 Color: Glossy Black with Silver-Tone Metal Trim
• 🚬 Type: Vintage Hinged Cigarette Case / Holder
• 📏 Dimensions: Approximately 4 inches Long × 3 inches Wide
• 💎 Decoration: Rectangular Rhinestone-Accented Geometric Filigree Plaque
• ✨ Design: Sleek Art Deco Styling with Polished Black Exterior
• 🔩 Construction: Hard Synthetic Plastic Shell with Non-Magnetic Metal Frame
• 🪵 Interior: Gold-Toned Faux Woodgrain Finish
• ⚙️ Mechanism: Dual Spring-Loaded Geometric Retaining Arms
• 🔒 Closure: Functional Push-Button Clasp
• 📦 Packaging: Original Cream Paperboard Presentation Box Stamped "GOLD"
• 🏷️ Manufacturer: Unmarked / Unidentified
• 🏠Collectible Appeal: Art Deco Accessories, Vintage Smoking Memorabilia, and Antique Vanity Displays
📦 Condition Notes
New old stock (NOS) condition with original presentation box. The case has never been placed into regular use and retains its beautifully preserved glossy black exterior, free of the typical pocket scratches and handling wear associated with previously used examples. Minor surface marks and small imperfections may be present from age and prolonged storage. The rhinestone decorative plaque remains intact, although several stones exhibit age-related darkening and discoloration consistent with deterioration of their reflective backings. The surrounding metal frame and interior spring-loaded retaining arms show scattered tarnishing, oxidation, and minor discoloration, particularly around the hinge mechanism and joints. These are age-related characteristics despite the item's unused condition. The interior retains its decorative faux woodgrain finish, and the retaining arms and push-button closure remain functional. The original cream presentation box is intact, with age-related discoloration, small surface stains, and minor edge and corner wear from decades of storage. Please review all photographs carefully to assess condition and details. Photos are of the exact case and box you will receive. At Second Chance at Forever, each item is photographed individually—never stock images—so you know exactly what you're getting and can buy with confidence.
📍 About Us
At Second Chance at Forever, we specialize in curating unique and high-quality vintage, collectible, and rare items that deserve a second life, and are recognized by collectors as one of the leading Barbie-focused stores on . We also offer new and gently loved games, home goods, and clothing. As a veteran-owned and operated store, we take pride in offering exceptional finds with attention to detail, quality, and authenticity. Browse our store for more one-of-a-kind pieces—we’re always adding treasures waiting for their next adventure! Followers receive occasional store-only discounts throughout the year.