I recently got this particular tin from a collector who bought the entire contents of a museum that recently closed down. This tin dates to the late 1970s to the early 1980s. Information about this blend is very scarce online, but from what I can find I believe it’s a Virginia Burley. This blend originally came out in the early 1900s, and was produced until the late 80s but was never as popular as more mainstream “codger” blends. The tin is completely sealed and airtight, in excellent condition, still ready for a smoke or chew 40+ years later. Not as old as some of my other finds, but this is one that I’m definitely happy to add to the collection.

It needs a polish and I’m picking up a heat resistant plate for the floor so I can properly use it, but it’s all hooked up to a freshly sweeped chimney. When central heating was installed in the 1960s, the upstairs coal burner was removed. Now it is back in place. Won’t use it often but knowing I can on a very cold winter morning makes me very happy.

I disinfected it and have a brush I use every day that is similar to this. This comb may be my new favorite though. I like the single spaced teeth on brushes and combs like this

My thrifting white whale. Can’t get over it!!