P. Lorillard Company/Anargyros Famous Cigarettes - NYC - Change Tray c.1900

Description

This piece measures 9" X 5". There is no damage to the glass; chips, scratches, or cracks. The backing is worn and in some areas is pulling away from the glass. See the first picture. Soterios Anargyros (Greek) imported tobacco from Turkey and Egypt and produced Murad, Helmar, Mogol, and other brands of premium cigarettes. He founded his company, Anargyros Famous Cigarettes, in 1885. The factory and depot were in New York City. In 1900 it became a subsidiary of the giant American Tobacco Company. In 1911 the American Tobacco Company was deemed a monopoly and broken up. The P. Lorillard Company received it's brands. What is unusual about this tray is that it contains cigarette bands. Who knew. These brands were expensive and smoked by the upper crust into the twenties. An interesting and rare piece of tobacco history.