Anyone have any ideas on what this vintage glass and metal item with a glass dome is?

Got in a grouping of items at auction. The Auctioneer seemed to think it was a bank of some sorts, I see why but I am doubtful. Appears to have had several rows of red text which is now worn away. The word I can almost make out is "national" which I believe is why the auctioneer was thinking bank. My father said it looked like something off a piece of equipment or machinery of some sort, perhaps and old filter.

I was wondering if the brain trust here have any additional ideas? Any thoughts would be welcome. It appears to have a bit of age but not especially old.

 

I think the auctioneer was correct, Joe:

https://tinyurl.com/y93otqtx

 

Thanks! I guess I shouldn't doubt auctioneers and their knowledge -- the longer tenured ones have seen a lot of stuff pass through their hands.