Two-piece hard rubber shaving soap case, originally with interior mirror, and small brass suspension ring. The hard rubber material made these less likely to be injured by hot water, and would not warp or corrode like metal or wood, and were watertight when closed.

This was clearly aimed at members of the navy (or their loved ones wishing to come up with a good-bye gift they would look at often on a sea voyage,) bearing a starburst design around the top with a round panel at center showing an anchor, thirteen stars, and U.S.N. all in raised figures on a stippled ground, with a border reading “DON’T GIVE UP THE SHIP” with two twisting ropes beneath. This shows no maker’s or patent marks, but was undoubtedly made under Goodyear's patent of May 6, 1851.

The condition is good. The color is brown overall. The detailing of the designs remains sharp. There is one small crack on the lid edge and the mirror is long gone. For reference on these and other similar goods during the period see Woshner’s “India-Rubber and Gutta-Percha in the Civil War Era.”  [jet] [ph:L]

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