The featured boxes were made predominantly to carry snuff and tobacco, and the book provides fascinating insight into the habits and customs that shaped their development. A handful of nutmeg graters, vinaigrettes and counter boxes of particular interest or rarity are also included. Maker's marks are given when present, and many of the boxes' engravings and details are explored, often providing clues about the objects former owners.

Arranged chronologically, enabling the reader to chart the development of British silver boxes over the course of two centuries, the boxes have been expertly photographed and researched. Details of provenance and other literary references help to complete the story of each piece in the collection.

Contents: Acknowledgements; Foreword; Introduction; Note from the Collector to the Reader; 17th century; 18th century; 19th century; Bibliography; Index of Makers Marks; Pictorial Index.