I certainly don't have the answer to the question, and I don't own any of the old two piece shell boxes; but I do have a one-piece box of 2 7/8" 28 gauge Remington Nitro Express shells that I think is from the late 1940's with this inscription under the top flap "These shells must not be used in guns having Damascus or Twist Steel barrels". This box is not dated; but all labels are white with green borders, and on the front is a Remington Dupont logo in a red circle. All shells are roll-crimped.