Another "What is this" thread

I've looked at tons of souvenirs from the 1901 Pan American Exposition online but can't find anything like this. Is it possibly a match holder? Toothpick holder? Lighter? It's 2 1/2" tall and 1 1/2" wide.

 

With that ridged section inside it could be match holder (also called a Vesta) but I'm having a tough time envisioning lighting the match where others are stored.

 

Similar.
https://picclick.co.uk/Vesta-Pan-American-Exposition-Worlds-Fair-NY-1901-203234355356.html

 

Match-safe/Vesta, striker on the bottom - looks like it's aluminum...

~Cheryl

 

Thanks everyone! Match holder it is! Cheryl, I think you're right about it being aluminum.

 

Forgot to ask. Should I try to remove the remnants of something like scotch tape on it or is it better left alone.
Thanks for replies!

 

My vote would be, safely remove the residue. Whatever you choose to use, test in a small and inconspicuous area prior to acing the whole thing.

 

If it's tape residue use 100% acetone. Either with Qtip or soaking in it. It is perfectly fine on metals as it is used religiously on coins. Acetone is flammable so use outside. Then just rinse and pat dry with a soft cloth. You'll find it may even remove the dirt/grime on it too without affecting the patina

 

What hasn't been mentioned - that's a 120 year-old souvenir from the 1901 World's Fair! That's the one where President McKinley was assassinated. Buffalo, NY.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pan-American_Exposition

Probably not worth a fortune, but a World's Fair collector or someone into US history would be after it. Or someone from Buffalo, NY where the fair was held.