Set of 3: Beautifully detailed inner label featuring frontal portrait in gold embossed oval frame of English scientist James Smithson flanked by American eagles and patriotic shields, 6x9; matching diecut oval outer with simulated wood grain finish, 3¼x4½; inner printer's proof for a different James Smithson cigar box label, 7x9½. Chromolithographed on coated stock, matching set is also embossed.

In 1829, James Smithson left $508,318.00 to the people of the United States to found an institution of knowledge, learning, curiosity and discovery. Seventeen years after his death the Smithsonian Institution was established by an act of Congress.