Rattle Box/Column

[Apparatus] Rattle Box/Column. Maker unknown (likely German), ca. 1915. An uncommon cylindrical version of this prop, lacquered in yellow; a wooden tube approximating the shape of a miniature British letter box 4 ¾" high, with finnialed lid. Once dropped inside, a borrowed coin can be secretly removed from the interior even though it is heard rattling inside. A spring-loaded mechanism concealed in the container's lid allows the performer to start and stop the rattling sound at will. Lacks instructions. Very good condition.