7400----c.1882 Tavern Sample Room id'd match holder New York City

7400----C.1882 TAVERN SAMPLE ROOM ID'D MATCH HOLDER NEW YORK CITY c. 1882 engraved advertising match holder from the "Sample Room" of Andrew Phillips at the "N.E. Cor. 15th & 6th Ave. New York."  I was able to find Phillips in the 1882 and 1883 NYC directories (see clips).  His occupation listed as "liquors" and "beer."  What was a Sample Room?   Take a look at the short description about a "sample room" from the 1886 "The Drinker's Dictionary."  The case is 2-3/4 x 1-1/2"   Shows average use, remaining in VG condition.   The lid opens and closes with no problem.  Not sure of the material, could be silver plate.   There is no mfg. mark and not magnetic. Research is for preview ONLY, not included in sale. * * * * * * * *