Anglesea and District Historical Society
Cigarette Tin, Millhof Co Pty Ltd, Estimated date: 1920-1950
... Geoffrey Phillips (Aust) Pty Ltd... Phillips (Aust) Pty Ltd Millhoff Top: De Reszke / VIRGINIA ...
Small, very rusty cigarette tin would have held 20 De Reszke virginia cigarettes. The cigarettes were named after Jean De Reszke (1850-1925), a famous Polish opera singer and were advertised as "The Aristocrat of Cigarettes". Produced by J. Millhoff (a Russian cigarette maker living in London). A special blend of tobacco - that was believed not to damage the famous singer's voice. In gratitude Millhoff was allowed to sell the brand as "De Reszke" cigarettes.Top: De Reszke / VIRGINIA / The Aristocrat of / CIGARETTES.
Two coats of arms - just visible on lid.
Sides: 20 De Reszke 20 / De Reszke CORK / Godfrey Phillips (Aust) Pty. Ltd., Melbourne, Australia.
MILLHOFF & C0 Pty Ltd.
Printed inside: "Just as good and pure a cigarette as was especially made for and always smoked by that great singer Jean De Reszske".
De RESZKE Virginia
Picture of gentleman above (head and shoulders).
smoking, de reszke, cigarettes, geoffrey phillips (aust) pty ltd, millhoff