This rectangular tin container is an original Civil War era accoutrement sometimes referred to as a letter box.  The box device measures 5¼” high x 10½” long x 8” wide when closed. Box has a hinged tin lid with a latch tab that secures to the box base with its original, period, heart-shaped brass lock. Lid hinge tabs are soldered in place to the base interior. Original key comes with the box. Box constructed of thick gauge tin that was formed and folded into shape then hot-dipped to protect the metal from rusting.  Exterior surface of the box has light surface grime and exhibits a dull medium gray color with distinct dark lines left from the dipping process. Box interior is shiny bright with normal scuff marks and light scratches. Letter box shows no visible markings or marker stampings. A fine mid-nineteenth century letter box.