Tobacco was introduced into England in the 16th century, but it wasn't until the 1660s that it became available for popular use. Tobacco boxes were made from the seventeenth century in most metals and shapes, the main feature being a close-fitting lid and smooth outlines so that it did not tear the pocket. English tobacco boxes tended to be plain with perhaps a monogram or coat of arms, but Continental boxes were often elaborately adorned with masculine designs of sporting, military or rustic themes. Their use went into some decline when tobacco manufacturers supplied their wares in tins and many smokers preferred a leather tobacco-pouch.
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