Amber poison bottles were designed to distinguish dangerous compounds from ordinary medicines while protecting light-sensitive contents. This example features embossed "POISON" lettering and retains its original cork stopper.
The handwritten pharmacy label reflects the genuine danger of mercuric chloride, once a common antiseptic, disinfectant, and laboratory chemical before its extreme toxicity led to its abandonment in medical practice.
Bottles like this survive as reminders of an era when pharmacies routinely dispensed substances that modern medicine now recognizes as highly hazardous. Because the tablets closely resembled ordinary medicine, accidental poisonings were tragically common—leading manufacturers to package them in distinctly marked poison bottles like this one.
Details
Origin: Likely United States or England
Date: Late 19th to Early 20th century (circa 1880–1930)
Material: Amber glass with cork stopper
Finish: Embossed "POISON" lettering with original handwritten pharmacy label
Dimensions: Approximately 3¼ in. H × 1¼ in. W
Condition: Displays age-appropriate wear consistent with antique pharmacy glass. Original handwritten paper label exhibits expected toning, edge wear, and minor losses. Original cork stopper remains in place with age-related wear. Glass presents well with no significant cracks or chips observed. Please review photographs carefully.
