New to hunting.....

[windtrix]

What is this? It is copper, fairly hefty.

 

[Ism]

looks like a lipstick tube but I've also seen old photography chemicals in similar screw top tubes.
The lack of flat bottom points more toward lipstick. Have you opened it?

 

[windtrix]

That might be it! That is funny because that is how I described the shape of the top...like a lipstick tube. But for some reason, I didn't think of it as actually being one. I think it is smaller than lipstick tubes these days, but maybe they were smaller years ago. I have not been able to get it open. Thanks!

 

[brianc577]

I have found jewelry in old brass lipstick cases!!!! be carefull. The flat bottom may have some light engraving for the manufacturer so look for that--BAC

 

[windtrix]

Thanks for the tip. Even though I have been able to get all the rust off the top of the tube, the bottom is still rusty and I cannot open it. The copper part has a patina, but looks great. I used a vinegar, salt, baking soda soak (which turned blue after several hours). I will be working on the bottom, but don't want to wreck it.

 

[Ism]

Maybe a soak in some penetrating oil to loosen the two halves.
I think Kroil is good for breaking the corrosion bond. I'm sure there are others.