The address is '210 Piccadilly' and the manufacturer is currently B. A. T. / Rothmans, though we believe the company was originally called 'State Express'

'Three Threes' 'Three Sevens' cork tipped and the most famous of the brand 'Three Fives' which can still be purchased today, now in three versions - 'State Express 555 International' and 'State Express Lights'.

'State Express' was very popular in the 50's and 60's but it is unclear when it actually originated. We believe the 30's. Does anybody know?

Nothing seems consistent with the brand, apart from the number themes and the State Express logo. Perhaps there were even more than the three brands we know of.

If you note, the crown on all three packs is different, the layout and style differs on each, the side panel is also totally different. For example, on 333 it refers to 'Three Threes', on 777 as 20 cigarettes and on 555 as 'State Express 555'. Nonetheless, a fascinating brand and one that depicted a class society.

These beautiful 'State Express' vehicles are available individually, but would also make a nice little set.

MORE INFORMATION

I picked up a State Express 333 "Flat Fifty" cigarette box at a flea market recently. On the top above the hinge it says Ardath Tobacco C. Ltd." then under that in smaller type it says "Factory No. 6 Port 10-D" The logo on the box is two shields with a stylized bird over the shields and with branches on each side of the bird. I cannot tell what the items depicted on the shields are. The interior of the box is pristine and the light yellow exterior with wood grain lines is rather good with some slight wear. Most of the Excise sticker is still attached, however the piece that covers the front edge is missing. Grant Wood 14/5/03

I used to collect cigarette boxes in the 1940s in England. State Express 333 was a common enough package then so I can vouch that it goes back at least that far.
Mike in Arizona  15/07/05
 

HI. I believe that State Express was first produced in 1895, according to an article I read. Ardath Tobacco originally produced them, and Ardath's overseas (outside Britain) business was acquired in 1925 according to article. Edandkayevt@aol.com

SEE ALSO

CIG019 State Express 555 and CIG020 State Express 777. Also see STATE EXPRESS