Birmingham Sterling Silver Cigarette Case by John Henry Wynn, 1929
Cigarette Case / Personal Accessory · John Henry Wynn (J.H.W). Wynn was a specialized manufacturing jeweler and silversmith based in Birmingham, established in the late 19th century and active through the mid-20th century, known specifically for high-quality small silver goods and engine-turned accessories.
Pattern: Traditional Art Deco Geometric / Engine-Turned Line Pattern. This type of pattern was part of the standard catalog of small silver accessories produced in Birmingham during the 1920s-30s.
Type
Cigarette Case / Personal Accessory
Maker
John Henry Wynn (J.H.W). Wynn was a specialized manufacturing jeweler and silversmith based in Birmingham, established in the late 19th century and active through the mid-20th century, known specifically for high-quality small silver goods and engine-turned accessories.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The interior likely contains a gilded/vermeil wash to prevent tobacco corrosion and an elasticated silk or fabric strap (tabs visible).
Dimensions
Standard pocket size typically measuring approx 8cm x 10cm. Weighted silver cases from this era usually range between 80g to 130g (approx 2.5 - 4 troy oz).
Description
An elegant example of Art Deco silver craftsmanship, this sterling silver cigarette case by John Henry Wynn exemplifies the sophisticated utility of the late 1920s. The exterior features a tight, disciplined engine-turned pattern that catches the light with architectural precision. The hallmarks are exceptionally crisp, suggesting the piece was struck with care and has not been over-polished.
Key Features
Crisp 1929 Birmingham hallmarks; John Henry Wynn maker's mark; engine-turned aesthetic; surviving interior attachment tabs.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The interior likely contains a gilded/vermeil wash to prevent tobacco corrosion and an elasticated silk or fabric strap (tabs visible).
Finish & Decoration
Satin finish with engine-turned (guilloché) decoration. The exterior is characterized by precise, machine-cut linear patterns typical of the Art Deco period, designed to reduce the visibility of fingerprints and scratches.
Hallmarks & Stamps
British Hallmarks for Birmingham: 1) Anchor (Birmingham Assay Office); 2) Lion Passant (British Sterling Silver standard); 3) Date Letter 'E' in a square shield (identifies the year as 1929); 4) Maker's Mark 'J.H.W' in a rectangular cartouche for John Henry Wynn.
Construction Details
Mechanical die-struck construction with hand-soldered hinges and thumb-pieces. The item is made of two mirrored halves of thick silver sheet joined by a longitudinal hinge.
Functional Features
Push-button release catch, spring-loaded hinge, and internal retaining tabs for a silk band or metal arm. The interior is often 'frosted' or gilded to protect the silver from chemical reaction with tobacco smoke.
Handle & Grip Details
Integrated thumb-piece or catch at the opening edge, typically flush with the body to maintain a sleek profile for pocket storage.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-aided precision engine-turning with hand-finished hinge alignment. The quality of the hallmark strikes indicates a high-standard pressing process before the final assembly of the casing.
Authentication Indicators
Hallmark consistency is excellent; the spacing and strike depth of the Anchor and Lion Passant are correct for the period. The maker's mark 'J.H.W' aligns with registered records for John Henry Wynn at the Birmingham office.
Origin & Manufacturing
Birmingham, England. Birmingham was the global center for 'small-work' or 'toys' (small silver items) during this period, utilizing sophisticated engine-turning lathes.
Era & Period
Art Deco (1920-1940). The emphasis on geometric regularity, portability, and industrial elegance are hallmark indicators of the interwar period.
Age Estimate
Dated 1929. The specific date letter 'E' coupled with the Birmingham Anchor and the Maker's Mark allows for precise dating to the 1929-1930 assay year.
Cultural Significance
Represents the height of social smoking etiquette in the early 20th century. Such cases were essential personal accessories for the modern gentleman or 'new woman' of the 1920s, bridging the gap between functional tool and jewelry.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The hallmarks show minimal wear. There is light surface tarnish and micro-scratching consistent with age. Metal alignment appears straight without major denting in the corners.
Value Estimate
$150 - $300 USD. Value is driven by the silver scrap weight (~$60-80) plus a significant premium for the specific maker, period aesthetic, and the fact that it is an intact, dated Art Deco specimen.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft microfiber cloth and a dedicated silver cream like Wright's. Avoid silver 'dips' which can strip the beautiful oxidation from the deep grooves of the engine-turning. Store in a Pacific Silvercloth pouch.
Similar Pieces
Mappin & Webb engine-turned cases, Dunhill silver lighters/cases, or Walker & Hall silver accessories. J.H.W pieces are often prized for their durability compared to lighter-gauge mass-produced alternatives.
Interesting Facts
John Henry Wynn's workshop was located in the famous Birmingham Jewellery Quarter. During 1929, silver cigarette cases were peak status symbols, often gifted at weddings or to officers as mementos of service.