These collectable pieces are very functional items. I use one every day, as I have found that the baccyflap allows just enough moisture release to keep my tobacco just about perfect for bowl loading at all times.
These bakelite collectables are around 70 yrs old now. I just purchased my fifth one this week and paid less than $60 for it on ebay on a buy it now sale.
There are supposed to be 2 versions of the baccyflap. One is the darker version, most likely found, which is intended to be used for English blends. The other is a lighter tan colored bakelite, intended for Virginia blends. I have been collecting these for a couple of years now, and I have yet to come across the lighter colored version.