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Frederick A. Claxton patented his cigarette cabinet with an actuating lighter holder in 1932/1933. Designed to operate using popular semi-automatic pocket lighters from the era, Claxton cigarette cabinets feature a lighter holder and simple lever mechanism to actuate the lighter when the cabinets are opened. Claxton’s patent drawing shows two cabinet designs. One is shown using an Original Thorens lighter, the other using a Dubsky Standard. These patent drawings correspond with the actual lighters found with production examples of these cabinets.

Claxton's actuated cigarette cabinets are largely undocumented. Evidence suggests they were exclusively produced in England and offered with several finish options. It’s unknown whether Claxton actually produced these cabinets or his design was licensed and manufactured by a third party. (EB)