Modern Engine-Turned Sterling Silver Cigarette Case
Cigarette Case / Personal Vanity Object · Unknown manufacturer; possibly American (Gorham/Webster) or European. Typically produced by specialists in personal accessories during the mid-20th century.
Pattern: Classic Slimline Rectangular, characterized by lack of ornate floral motifs, focusing on industrial symmetry.
Type
Cigarette Case / Personal Vanity Object
Maker
Unknown manufacturer; possibly American (Gorham/Webster) or European. Typically produced by specialists in personal accessories during the mid-20th century.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Silver Plate (EPNS). Internal surfaces often gilded (Vermeil) to prevent tobacco corrosion.
Dimensions
Approximately 4.5 inches by 3.25 inches; estimated weight between 120-180 grams (3.8-5.8 troy oz) depending on thickness.
Description
A sophisticated and utilitarian personal accessory, this silver cigarette case represents the height of mid-century social etiquette. Its slim profile and radiant surface reflect the post-war obsession with streamlined design. While originally for tobacco, these are now frequently repurposed as luxury card cases for the modern professional.
Key Features
Curved 'waist' for pocket comfort, high-polish finish, internal gilding to protect the metal, and a seamless integrated hinge.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Silver Plate (EPNS). Internal surfaces often gilded (Vermeil) to prevent tobacco corrosion.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish on the exterior edges with a subtle, fine-line engine-turned or satin texture on the front face. Minimalist Modernist aesthetic.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expect stamps on the interior bezel or inner thumb-press. Likely contains 'Sterling' or a purity number (925) and a maker’s punch mark.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed and die-struck panels joined by a precision-tooled piano hinge. The body is formed from two curved sheets of silver sheet metal.
Functional Features
Push-button thumb latch mechanism, spring-loaded hinge, and internal elastic or silver retaining bar to hold contents secure.
Handle & Grip Details
No external handle; the grip is provided by the slim, curved ergonomic profile designed to fit inside a breast pocket or evening bag.
Craftsmanship Details
The quality of the 'snap' upon closing and the lack of a visible gap in the hinge are the primary hallmarks of superior craftsmanship in this piece.
Authentication Indicators
Solder lines are invisible, suggesting high-quality factory production. The weight-to-size ratio should feel substantial if it is true sterling silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or United Kingdom (Birmingham). Produced in a factory environment using precision machinery rather than hand-raising.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1940-1960). The lack of Art Deco geometry suggests a later, more functionalist approach to personal silver items.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1965, based on the sleek form and the decline in ceremonial tobacco accessories in favor of disposable lighter culture.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of the 'Cocktail Hour' era, reflecting a time when silver was integrated into daily social habits and smoking was a public ritual of status.
Condition Notes
Surface shows minor micro-scratches consistent with pocket wear; hinge appears aligned. Overall condition: Very Good. Light tarnish visible at the edges.
Value Estimate
Between $150–$350 USD depending on the confirmed maker’s mark and current silver spot price.
Care & Maintenance
Wash with mild soap and water first; polish with a high-quality silver cream like Wright's. Store in a Pacific silver cloth pouch to prevent sulfide build-up.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. plain polished cases (higher value), or Dunhill lacquered cases (mixed materials).
Interesting Facts
During the mid-20th century, cigarette cases were often personalized gifts for groomsmen or military promotions, frequently featuring engraved maps or signatures inside.