What is this Wilcox S.P.Co. EPNS item's name and purpose?

I found this metal box with a handle on it at a garage sale, but have never been able to find out what it is called. The person selling it had no idea where it came from, what it was called, or even why she had it. Stamped on the bottom is the text,

"Wilcox S.P.Co.
EPNS
International S. Co.
N 232
I S"

Someone suggested it was used in bars for holding cigarettes. Two packs of playing cards also fit nicely. I uploaded the following photos, and am hoping that someone here can tell me what this thing is called, as I would like to sell it on eBay but cannot until I find out what it is. The starting price will be $1. It weighs just under 2 lbs.

Wilcox box with handle 1 by sptsailing posted Mar 17, 2017 at 10:42 PM

Wilcox box with handle 2 by sptsailing posted Mar 17, 2017 at 10:43 PM

Wilcox box with handle 3 by sptsailing posted Mar 17, 2017 at 10:44 PM

Wilcox box with handle 4 by sptsailing posted Mar 17, 2017 at 10:45 PM

 

Cigarette box - for passing cigarettes at the dining table, between courses

oh, how I miss the old days...............

 

I agree....about both !

 

That was a welcome and fast response. I have searched, but cannot seem to find many photos of similar items with a handle called a cigarette box. Link(s) would be appreciated!

 

Thank you again. Using your answer, I kept digging and found it may also be referred to as a table/desk cigarette offering box.

 

Nice piece, I think this could be from a nightclub or highend restaurant, maybe even a private club. 20s or 30s. Used by the waiter/butler to give cigarettes to guests.

 

probably had a matching "silent butler" at some point

 

I agree. It is a nice piece. I hope someone else likes it too. I listed it in an auction on eBay starting at $0.99
Item 322455700144
"Vintage Silver Plated Table/Desk Cigarette Offering Box with handle E.P.N.S"

I bought it have had it for a few years because it looked nice, but I don't smoke and I could never figure out a use for it.