Skip to main content
Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions

What is a match safe?

1 Answer
What is a match safe?
A match safe is a small portable box that is designed to hold matches and keep them dry. In the early 19th century, these boxes were very popular since matches were known to ignite unexpectedly when carried without a protective cover.
1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021
Shop for Match Safe on 1stDibs
14k Vesta Match Safe
Located in Montreal, QC
14k yellow gold Vesta match safe with elaborate work. Acid tested 14k. Measures 1 3/8 inches x 1
Category

Antique Late 19th Century Unknown More Objets d'Art and Vertu

Materials

14k Gold

Victorian Sterling Etched Match Safe
Located in New York, NY
Lovely Victorian Sterling Etched Match safe from the late 1900's UK. Hand etched with ornate scroll
Category

Early 1900s Ashtrays

Antique Gold Match Safe/Pill Box
Located in New York, NY
Beautifully textured hinged match safe. Heavy gauge 14K yellow gold. Allover nailhead pattern. 2
Category

Antique Early 1900s American Boxes and Cases

Materials

14k Gold

Antique Gunmetal and Copper Match Safe
Located in New York, NY
Antique match safe: gunmetal, with applied copper horse and rider. The clasp is set with a bezel
Category

Antique Early 1900s American Boxes and Cases

Materials

Turquoise, Base Metal

German Jugendstil Enamel Candelabras and Match-Safe
Located in New York, NY
German Jugendstil period pair of three-armed candelabra with match-safe, created in Germany around
Category

Antique Early 1900s German Jugendstil Candelabras

Materials

Brass, Bronze, Copper, Enamel

Antique Sterling Silver Snake Match Safe
Located in New York, NY
A great figural sterling silver match safe. A double-sided representation of a snake. Well
Category

Antique 1890s American More Jewelry

Materials

Sterling Silver

Shop All