With all of that, and no useful reason to set up and test what’s inside, why bother? Curiosity isn’t usually a valid case for expenditure of public funds when there’s no threat to anyone or anything that can be “fought” against.

Tbh I'd say curiosity is a totally valid expenditure of public funds given ample oversight, but I do tend to agree this isn't necessarily such a situation. Nevertheless, I appreciate ya highlighting the respectful angle to not opening it, as I can be unintentionally careless when it comes to some rituals/beliefs. The whole bull in a china shop with'em sometimes, especially when curiosity gets the better of me.