My great aunt gave me one that belonged to my great uncle. She said that in the military they gave the men sewing kits for mending their own garments. Mine is not like yours but very similar. I love vintage sewing notions don't you.

Yes I do, and I have looked the internet over and haven't found one like the one I have..and there is no markings or letters or anything on the can...I thought I might find out how much it would be worth..just curious...

Wonderful old relic and in such good condition. It would appear that it was never used. And now it is yours - lucky you

Any chance of seeing pictures of your collection? I've collected thimbles and antique sewing tools for many years. Barb A.

Here is a link to one that looks exactly like yours. There is a link to this lady's e-mail, so perhaps you could contact her.Read the story below her pic.

http://lindamccoyart.blogspot.com/20...-painting.html

And this one...describes the part inside the spools as a pin holder..

http://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedi...eld-sewing-kit

It's an old sewing kit for the soldiers. Either WWI or WWII. Probably purchased at the PX or issued. Was there a needle in the kit as well? The "tin" was to keep the contents dry so you could repair tears, etc., out in the field or on maneuvers. You have a real piece of memorabilia there! You could always check with the Smithsonian. :-)

You have some very good information here on what you have. I have a very small collection of Etui or small sewing kits. I treasure them as they are hard to find and unusual. You can find more information in the book Sewing Tools and Trinkets by Helen Lester Thompson published by Collector Books, Paducah, Kentucky. Enjoy your little treasure.

very cool!!!

Cute--even the thimble is included!

Well I have found out for sure this was a WWl item, given to service men sometimes by the Red Cross or other organizations...so my curiousity is cured...glad I have it in my collection...