I can find no record of this existence of this toy construction set out there anywhere, which sold me on the lid of the box alone. And it would not surprise me if very few sets were produced, as it is not exactly user friendly--I can't imagine young hands (or any hands!) having a lot of success building complex structures with these. But, it seems a significant predecessor to many others (tinker toys for an example) and also very aligned with Froebel's kindergarten program--and so too with modernism itself. (Playing around with these makes me think of everyone from Buckminster Fuller to Fred Sandback.) Late 19th century I believe, made in Germany, and a rare and special feeling thing just to have around whether or not ever to construct with! 

Box measures 8 1/2" x 7 1/2" x 7/8". Surface wear and toning to the lid as evident, but structurally sound and I think the graphics are just excellent. I am sure there were once more brass connecting pieces to this set than remain, and probably at least a few more sticks too.