This is a novelty advertising tin plate & celluloid matchbox cover or grip, probably of American manufacture, and dating to the 1920's.

The case advertises 'PABST'S OKAY SPECIFIC', which was a patent cure for 'social diseases'.

Between 1915 & 1919,the Pabst Chemical Co, makers of Okay Specific, had 27 actions taken against them under the Food & Drugs Act for claiming that Okay Specific "cures positively & without fail, Gonorrhoea & Gleet - no matter how serious or how long standing" !!

The front of the case has a reversible image of an unhappy man's face & states 'Before using Pabst's Okay'. If the case is reversed, the man is now smiling, & states 'After using Pabst's Okay'.

The spine of the case reads 'Pabst's Chemical Co, 319 W.Ohio St, Chicago, Ill'.

The reverse of the case reads 'When in Trouble use Pabst's Okay Specific'.

This case (& the other Pabst's case I've listed) are featured in the Schiffer book 'Match Holders', page 101.

The condition is excellent, with no splits, rust, or foxing.

Measurments are approx 6cm x 4 cm x 2 cm.

An extremely scarce holder, in fantastic condition.