This circular box is turned in two pieces from oak, its lid applied with a gilt-metal medallion and ribbon. The medallion is engraved with a three-masted ship inscribed 'H.M.S.Victory', the flag-ship of the British fleet at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, at which the British scored a decisive victory over the French and Spanish fleet in the war against Napoleon. The ribbon is inscribed 'MADE FROM THE COMPANION LADDER DOWN WHICH NELSON WAS CARRIED ON THE GLORIOUS 21ST OF OCTOBER 1805'. This refers to the death of Admiral Horatio Nelson, commander of the British fleet: though his brilliant strategy ensured success, he was killed by a French sniper in the hour of victory.

This box was acquired by the Museum's founder, Sir William Holburne, who actually took part in the battle of Trafalgar aged twelve as a midshipman. It must have had huge significance for him, for his funeral inscription in Lansdown Cemetery begins by mentioning his own role at Trafalgar.

Nelson was a leader of extraordinary charisma, beloved by his men and a national hero, whose tragic death intensified his glory. This box has two obvious purposes: holding snuff (the sniffing of snuff was a favourite aristocratic pastime) and commemorating the death of a heroic leader. Though the materials of this box are really humble, its association with Nelson and one of British history's greatest moments gives it extraordinary value. It would have had great meaning both for its owner and those who saw it.