Losec Branded 830 Silver Hip Flask
Hollowware (Hip Flask) · The maker is identified by the Finnish hallmark G7, indicating Kultakeskus Oy, the leading Finnish silversmith company founded in 1918. It also bears prominent branding for 'Losec' (Omeprazole), a pharmaceutical product by AstraZeneca.
Pattern: Custom Pharmaceutical Promotional Item; Plain polished curved form.
Type
Hollowware (Hip Flask)
Maker
The maker is identified by the Finnish hallmark G7, indicating Kultakeskus Oy, the leading Finnish silversmith company founded in 1918. It also bears prominent branding for 'Losec' (Omeprazole), a pharmaceutical product by AstraZeneca.
Material
830 Silver (83% silver content), which was the standard fineness for Scandinavian silver for much of the 20th century.
Dimensions
Approximately 10-12 cm in height, 7-8 cm in width. Estimated weight 120-150 grams.
Description
This is a unique Finnish silver hip flask commissioned as a high-end promotional gift or corporate award for the pharmaceutical brand Losec. Crafted from 830 silver by the reputable Kultakeskus Oy, it combines traditional Scandinavian metallurgy with modern corporate branding. The piece features a sleek, ergonomic curve and a minimalist aesthetic typical of Finnish design.
Key Features
Prominent pharmaceutical branding on precious metal; Finnish state hallmarks on the bottom rim; specific '830H' purity mark.
Material & Composition
830 Silver (83% silver content), which was the standard fineness for Scandinavian silver for much of the 20th century.
Finish & Decoration
Satin-to-mirror polished surface with a sandblasted or acid-etched 'Losec' logo and registered trademark symbol. The design is minimalist and utilitarian.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Finnish national hallmarks: The 'crown in a heart' (National mark), '830H' (silver fineness), 'G7' (date code for 1961 or likely a modern cycle variant/maker's code), and a boat/city mark for Hämeenlinna.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed or die-struck two-part body with a soldered perimeter seam; slightly concave 'kidney' shape designed to fit comfortably against the body.
Functional Features
Curved body for pocket portablity; likely features a screw-top cap (not fully visible) with a cork or rubber seal.
Handle & Grip Details
No handles; the grip is provided by the smooth, curved silver body.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial-grade silver work; clean seams and professional polishing. The hallmarks are struck with precision, indicating a controlled factory environment rather than a small studio.
Authentication Indicators
Deep, clear Finnish hallmarks on the lower rim; weight and metal color consistent with 830 silver; laser-etched or sandblasted logo execution consistent with late 20th-century manufacturing.
Origin & Manufacturing
Hämeenlinna, Finland. Produced by Kultakeskus Oy, known for high-quality industrial silver production.
Era & Period
Modern Corporate/Pharmaceutical Era (Late 20th Century). Primarily functional and promotional in context.
Age Estimate
Circa 1988-2000. Based on the trademarking of Losec (introduced in the late 80s) rather than the older Finnish date codes.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the intersection of industrial wealth (Big Pharma) and traditional craftsmanship (Finnish Silversmithing). It marks a period where silver was still used for high-status corporate gifts.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. Visible surface scratches, minor scuffing, and light tarnish consistent with being carried in a pocket or bag. No major dents or structural breaches visible.
Value Estimate
$150 - $250 USD. Value is driven primarily by its silver weight (melt value) plus a premium for the Finnish maker and the 'niche' interest for medical/pharmaceutical collectors.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft cloth and mild silver polish like Wright's Silver Cream. Avoid abrasive pads which will mar the 'Losec' logo. Store in a soft pouch to prevent further scratching.
Similar Pieces
Generic Kultakeskus hip flasks without branding; pewter promotional flasks (which are much lighter and lack hallmarks).
Interesting Facts
Losec was one of the world's best-selling drugs in the 1990s. Pharmaceutical companies frequently commissioned silver and luxury goods for high-performing sales reps or medical conferences during this era.