Modern Sheffield Sterling Silver Pill Box or Snuff Box by Douglas Pell
Decorative Object / Snuff Box / Pill Box · Douglas Pell Silverware (DP), a renowned British manufacturing silversmith established in 1972, known for high-quality small giftware and accessories.
Pattern: Contemporary Minimalist Circular Box; part of the standard giftware range by Douglas Pell.
Type
Decorative Object / Snuff Box / Pill Box
Maker
Douglas Pell Silverware (DP), a renowned British manufacturing silversmith established in 1972, known for high-quality small giftware and accessories.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) indicated by the '925' and 'Lion Passant' hallmarks visible in the image.
Dimensions
Approximately 3.5cm to 4.5cm in diameter; estimated weight 15-25 grams. Small pocket/handbag size.
Description
This elegant sterling silver pill box exemplifies modern British silversmithing. Its circular, unadorned form focuses entirely on the luster of the metal and the precision of its hallmarking. The piece is both a functional medical accessory and a sophisticated pocket object, often given as a christening or anniversary gift. Its smooth surface also serves as an ideal canvas for personalized engraving.
Key Features
The distinctive Sheffield rose mark combined with the DP maker's mark; the clean, seamless hinge-line; and the hallmark placement as a central design element on the base.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) indicated by the '925' and 'Lion Passant' hallmarks visible in the image.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with a plain, unadorned surface typical of late 20th-century functionalism. Features a small thumb-tab for opening.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Full Sheffield hallmark set: 'DP' (Maker's Mark for Douglas Pell), '925' (Common Control Mark for sterling), 'Rose' symbol (Assay Office for Sheffield), and 'c' date letter.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed and hand-finished. The body is formed from sheet silver with a flush-mounted hinge and an applied thumb-piece.
Functional Features
Hinged lid with a friction-fit closure and a small external tab to facilitate easy opening. Designed to contain small tablets or personal mementos.
Handle & Grip Details
Features a small rectangular sterling silver thumb-lift or tab attached to the lid opposite the hinge.
Craftsmanship Details
Exhibits high industrial standards with precise hinge alignment and a perfectly centered hallmark strike, indicating quality control typical of the Sheffield Assay Office.
Authentication Indicators
Hallmark consistency is excellent; the '925' mark aligns with European Common Control conventions and the Sheffield Assay Office Rose is correctly struck for the period.
Origin & Manufacturing
United Kingdom, manufactured in Sheffield, South Yorkshire — a city with a global reputation for silver and steel production since the 18th century.
Era & Period
Modern / Contemporary Period (late 20th-century British jewelry and silver craft).
Age Estimate
Dated specifically to 2002 based on the Sheffield 'c' date letter in its specific serif font and shield shape.
Cultural Significance
Represents the continuation of the 'vade mecum' (go with me) tradition of carrying personal silver boxes, which evolved from 18th-century snuff boxes to modern medicinal pill containers.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition. Shows light surface micro-scratching consistent with handling and light use. Hallmark remains crisp and legible. The metal shows minor tarnish that can be easily removed.
Value Estimate
$60.00 - $110.00 USD. Value is driven by silver weight and the prestige of the Sheffield hallmark rather than extreme rarity.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft microfiber cloth and Wright's Silver Cream. Avoid chemical dips which can strip the internal patina. Store in a soft pouch to prevent scratches from coins or keys.
Similar Pieces
Similar circular boxes by Carr's of Sheffield or Tiffany & Co. (USA). Difference: Tiffany pieces often lack the comprehensive British assay marks and instead use a simple 'Sterling' stamp.
Interesting Facts
Douglas Pell items are famously carried by high-end retailers like Harrods and Selfridges. The company often produces replicas of antique Victorian pieces, but this specific piece is a contemporary original design.