Georgian Gilt-Interior Sterling Silver Snuff Box by Thomas Shaw
Snuff Box / Vinagrette / Pill Box · Thomas Shaw, a prominent Birmingham silversmith active in the early 19th century, specifically noted for high-quality smallwares and 'toys'.
Pattern: Traditional Rectangular Georgian Box
Type
Snuff Box / Vinagrette / Pill Box
Maker
Thomas Shaw, a prominent Birmingham silversmith active in the early 19th century, specifically noted for high-quality smallwares and 'toys'.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) with high-carat gold vermeil interior lining to prevent corrosion from tobacco/salts.
Dimensions
Approx. 4.5cm length x 3cm width x 1.5cm depth; estimated weight 35-45 grams.
Description
A fine example of early 19th-century British silver craft, this snuff box features a brilliant gilded interior and robust hinges. Designed for the pocket of a gentleman, it exemplifies the luxury of the Regency period.
Key Features
Vibrant gold wash preservation, maker's initials crisp on the interior lid, and the classic Birmingham 'toy' trade proportions.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) with high-carat gold vermeil interior lining to prevent corrosion from tobacco/salts.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish exterior with a parcel-gilt interior. The lid likely features engine-turned engraving or a vacant monogram cartouche (partially obscured).
Hallmarks & Stamps
Birmingham anchor mark, Lion Passant (British Sterling standard), maker's mark 'T.S' (Thomas Shaw), and date letter 'U' or 'W' (approx. 1818-1820).
Construction Details
Hand-raised and fabricated with a precision flush-fit bezel and a five-piece pinned hinge assembly.
Functional Features
Air-tight closure lid designed to keep tobacco moist; gold-washed interior to prevent salt/nicotine oxidation of the silver.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; flush-fitting lid with a small thumbpiece lip for ease of opening.
Craftsmanship Details
Exceptional hinge alignment indicative of hand-fitting; the lid snaps shut firmly, a hallmark of quality Georgian silversmithing.
Authentication Indicators
The striking of the hallmarks inside both the lid and base is consistent with British law of the period to prevent part-switching.
Origin & Manufacturing
Birmingham, England; manufactured in the famous 'Jewellery Quarter' known for excellence in silver smalls.
Era & Period
Regency / Late Georgian Period (c. 1820), characterized by precision engineering and compact luxury items.
Age Estimate
Circa 1815-1825 based on the style of the Birmingham hallmarks and Shaw's peak production years.
Cultural Significance
Snuff boxes were essential social status symbols in the 18th and 19th centuries, often exchanged as gifts or used to signal wealth during social gatherings.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The gilding remains mostly intact. Light surface scratches and minor tarnish on the exterior. Hinge appears tight without wobble.
Value Estimate
$350 - $550 USD depending on the clarity of the exterior engraving and presence of monograms.
Care & Maintenance
Hand polish with a soft cotton cloth and silver cream; avoid dipping in chemicals which could strip the gold vermeil interior.
Similar Pieces
Nathaniel Mills snuff boxes (higher premium for complex chasing) or Edward Smith vinaigrettes.
Interesting Facts
Birmingham was known as the 'Toy Shop of Europe' during this time, specializing in these intricate mechanical silver boxes.