Description
Overview
A finely engraved English sterling silver vesta case, made for carrying matches before disposable lighters became commonplace. Its rounded rectangular body is covered with scrolling foliage, flowers and delicate tool-cut shading, with a shield-shaped central cartouche left without a monogram. A small suspension ring allows the case to be carried on a chain or fob.
The case is hallmarked with the Birmingham anchor, the English lion passant sterling-silver mark, a maker's or sponsor's punch and a date letter appearing as C. The punch style is consistent with the Birmingham 1927–28 assay cycle, although the precise sponsor has not yet been reliably identified.
Key Details
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Object: English silver vesta case / hinged match safe
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Origin: Birmingham, England, indicated by the anchor hallmark
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Silver: Hallmarked sterling silver (925/1000)
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Period: Circa 1927–28, from the apparent Birmingham date-letter C; dating provisional pending definitive punch comparison
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Decoration: Dense hand-finished-style floral and foliate engraving, beaded borders and reserved shield cartouche
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Construction: Hinged upper cover, rounded sides, small fob/chain attachment ring and ribbed match-striking surface
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Maker: Sponsor's punch visible but not independently identified
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Hallmarks: Photographed at close range in the gallery
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Reference: SP-SD-029
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Measurements and weight: Not yet supplied
A Small Object from Everyday History
A vesta case was designed to keep matches protected and close at hand. Decorative examples turned an everyday necessity into a personal accessory, often finished with a monogrammed shield. On this example the blank cartouche is part of the appeal: it leaves the engraved design uninterrupted and offers a quiet point of contrast against the surrounding scrollwork.
Condition
Vintage/antique pre-owned condition, showing expected handling marks and light surface wear. Please study the photographs for the hinge, interior, hallmark punches, engravings, and the condition of the striker. Matches are not included. The hinge is photographed open and closed; no restoration or fully operational spring guarantee is claimed beyond what is visible.
Authenticity & Shipping
421Luxury guarantees the item as a genuine hallmarked sterling silver vesta case as described. Assay office, silver standard and provisional date are distinguished from an as-yet unidentified maker. Packed securely and dispatched from Turin, Italy, with tracked, signature-required delivery where available.
