Auction just down the road from me, a few old tools but this box held dust.  Has a hasp, but still retains a key lock, no key of course.   Suitcase type carry handle, no end handles.  Till holds 3 handsaws?  Painted black, but the bottom is just wood. 3 hinges,  joinery looks like factory work?  Your thoughts?   Had to shell out  $25. 

Took this to  a MWTCA meet,  ten minutes on the table and a fellow hauled some cash out, became the new owner.   The inside cleaned up well,  the outside had paint smears.  Asked the buyer if he was going to paint it or anything.   Thought he would  put on some clear coat to preserve the look of 50 years use. 

Get your money back out of er?

A good finish for preserving finishes is boiled linseed oil, rubbed in and wiped off.  I learned this thru the Rat Rod Bicycle Forum and tried it on a couple old Schwinn Typhoon cruisers.  Brings out the color of the paint and prevents rust.  Sold one of the Schwinns for $250.  I just used it on an old Craftsman machinist box and it looks good.
Al

I have done same.  Wipe it off thoroughly, of course.

John, I surely hope you got some multiple of your investment back on this!  Very kool find

I did, not a huge amount, but nice to end up on the plus side on occasion.  Have another one now plus a Parker vise, weighs about 80 lbs.