Snuffbox Given to Joseph Francis

This golden snuffbox mounted with diamonds in the shape of a crown atop the letter N was presented to Joseph Francis by Emperor Napoleon III of France on 4 February 1856. It was presented to Francis for his lifesaving inventions, which had saved the lives of many French citizens. It is inscribed on the inside of the top:

Par Empereur Napoléon III
a Joseph Francis New York
le 4 Février 1856

The snuffbox was donated to the Smithsonian in 1890 by Joseph Francis himself, along with a gold medal he received for his lifesaving efforts and inventions via an 1888 act of Congress.

ID Number:

PL*005695

Date:

ca 1856

Dimensions:

1 1/2 in x 3 in x 5 1/2 in; 3.81 cm x 7.62 cm x 13.97 cm