RARE Antique Victorian Milk Glass Cocaine Poison Bottle – Skull Warning Tag

Presenting a highly unusual and visually striking 19th-century medical artifact. This miniature, 55mm bespoke Victorian apothecary bottle is crafted from ribbed opaque white glass (milk glass) and features a unique dual-sided design. One side bears a stark, silver memento mori skull and cocaine label, while the reverse is set with a large, faceted clear glass jewel. Designed to easily slip into a physician’s vest pocket or a private medical kit, this diminutive flask is a captivating example of antique macabre apothecary art.

 During the late Victorian era, cocaine was a widely utilized, highly potent medicinal substance. It was frequently prescribed by physicians and dentists as a local anesthetic, a remedy for toothaches, and a nerve tonic. Because of its extreme potency, high-end bespoke apothecary containers commissioned for private use were often adorned with explicit warnings to prevent accidental overdose.

The prominent skull motif on this piece served as a universal, undeniable warning of the potent contents. The ribbed texture of the milk glass and the large protruding crystal on the reverse may have served as tactile warnings, ensuring the user knew exactly which bottle they were handling even in the dark.

Design & Craftsmanship Please refer to the included high-resolution photographs to fully appreciate the distinctive craftsmanship of this piece:

• The Glass Body: the body is crafted from classic Victorian milk glass, featuring a deeply ribbed, circular canteen shape.

• The Skull Motif:  a silver applique . It features an anatomically detailed skull positioned directly above a curved banner reading “COCAINE”. The dark patina silver creates a stark, beautiful contrast against the white glass.

• The Crystal Motif: The reverse side of the flask is inset with a large, deeply faceted clear crystal or glass cabochon, secured within a circular metal bezel.

• The Cap: The bottle is sealed with its original threaded metal screw cap. 

Dimensions

• Total Height: 55mm (approx. 2.16 inches) – A true pocket-sized miniature.

Condition & eBay Policy Compliance

• Condition: Excellent antique condition. The ribbed milk glass is fully intact with no chips, structural cracks, or discoloration. Both the metal skull applique and the faceted crystal are securely attached. The threaded cap screws on and off smoothly, displaying authentic age-appropriate surface wear.

• Mandatory Disclaimer: PLEASE NOTE: This antique bottle is completely EMPTY. It contains absolutely no fluids, residues, illegal drugs, or restricted substances. It is being sold strictly as a historical medical collectible, curio, and display piece, fully complying with all eBay regulations regarding vintage pharmaceutical items.

Shipping & Handling Given the rarity and fragility of this miniature Victorian artifact, the item will be packaged with the highest level of care using professional, archival-quality protective materials. Shipped fully insured with tracking to ensure its safe arrival.

Seller’s Note: It is exceptionally rare to find a Victorian cocaine bottle crafted from milk glass, and even rarer to find one featuring this specific dual-sided skull and crystal design. This 55mm piece is a fantastic acquisition for collectors of miniature medical antiquities, antique poison bottles, or unique macabre oddities. Please review all high-resolution images closely, as they serve as the primary condition report, and feel free to message with any specific inquiries prior to bidding.

It comes with an APPRAISAL CERTIFICATE FOR $2000