Edwardian golden vesta case; fully hallmarked for Chester 1903 by the illustrious silversmiths Henry Griffith & Sons, of Leamington Spa, measurements the length 4.7cm/ 1.83inches, wide 3.4cm/1.33inches, depth 0.8cm/0 .31 inches and weight 24 grams with flare & bright cut engraving.
Maker's mark; HG & SLtd for Henry Griffith & Sons Ltd of Birmingham later of Leamington Spa, Chester city mark, 9crt .375 and date letter C for 1903-4
The most distinguishing feature of pocket match safes is the striking area. Striking surfaces usually consist of a notched or ribbed surface located on the bottom or side of the container. Some use emery or sandpaper inserts. A few have the striker worked into the design, and some are designed to automatically ignite the match upon removal, rarely will one be found without a striking surface.
About Griffith & Sons,see:
http://www.ourwarwickshire.org.uk/conte ... el-factory
Oel.