Green Hexagonal Chemist Pharmacy Bottle

A vintage green hexagonal bottle complete with its original hand written label stating the contents as lead and opium lotion, poison.

The bottle originated from The Copsewood Pharmacy in Coventry c.1950. The labels reads:

The Copsewood Pharmacy (E.M. Smith, M.P.S.) Dispensing and Photographic Chemist.

121 Momus Boulevard, Coventry. Tel. No. 52694

The contents read:

Shake the bottle. For external use only.

Handwritten: LEAD and OPIUM LOTION

A Separate label reads: POISON.

Having looked up the pharmacy, it appears that the company still exists in Coventry as Copsewood Alliance Chemist, although they have now moved premises. The original building has gone and the address on the label is now a private house next to a row of shops.

The bottle itself measures approx. 11cm tall and is in excellent condition with no cracks or chips. The cork appears to be new and not original to the bottle. There are remnants of the contents still visible in the bottle which makes it look particularly interesting.

In the last century, and before, lead and opium lotion was widely used. It was mostly used to treat sprains and joint pain when used to soak cotton wool and applied to the affected area. Used as an astringent, it was said to remove haemorrhoids, and reduce cancerous growths. It was also a recommended substance for treating trench foot when used as a wash.

A great vintage chemist bottle with an interesting label.