TSS Athenia RARE Match Book Cover Case Donaldson

Very rare chromium plated match book cover case from the transatlantic passenger ship T.S.S. Athenia, the machine worked case with flip top and gilt interior, set on the front with a plaque showing a shamrock and the Donaldson Line flag enamelled in green, blue and red. The T.S.S. Athenia was the first British ship to be sunk by a German U-Boat on September 3rd, 1939, the same day that Britain declared war on Germany and the Second World War started. The case has a very unique history according to the owner – it was purchased by a lady by the name of Christina Dunlop on her voyage from Canada to Scotland in 1939, and Ms. Dunlop was due to return to Canada that same year aboard the Athenia during its ill fated September voyage but for reasons unknown Ms. Dunlop did not board the ship for that voyage. A Christina Dunlop can be found on inward and outward passenger ship lists for Britain for the year 1939, perhaps corroborating the story. The Glasgow based Donaldson Line founded in the 19th century, entered into the Canadian passenger trade in 1905. 2.5 inches H x 1.5 W.

Condition: Although care is taken to photograph and describe the item, absence of a condition report does not imply perfect condition. It is the responsibility of the buyer to verify the condition of the item, either in person during our viewing hours prior to auction or through requested condition reports. All bids are final and are subject to our terms and conditions.