Item 26-222

This is a charming antique French advertising and savings tin, most likely dating from about 1900–1925, with an Art Nouveau design featuring stylised flowers and foliage.

We found it with this “treasure trove” of sewing notions from its previous owner safely tucked away inside. 

The inscription reads:

“LA VANILLE”

“Préparée spécialement pour l’épargne”

“10 c”

which translates roughly as:

“Vanilla – specially prepared for savings – 10 centimes.”

The word “Épargne” means “savings,” suggesting this was probably sold as an inexpensive novelty savings bank or promotional money box. Small French tins like this were often issued by grocers, confectioners, coffee merchants, or savings schemes to encourage customers—especially children—to save coins.

It measures 5cm across and 3cm high.