Novelty Silverplate and Brass Double-Barrel Cannon Table Cigarette Lighter and Ashtray Set
Decorative Object / Tobacciana · Likely manufactured by a novelty giftware specialist such as Ronson, Negbaur, or an unbranded mid-20th-century Japanese/European workshop for the souvenir market.
Pattern: Military Souvenir Series; typical of post-WWII desk accessories and office novelties; non-pattern specific.
Type
Decorative Object / Tobacciana
Maker
Likely manufactured by a novelty giftware specialist such as Ronson, Negbaur, or an unbranded mid-20th-century Japanese/European workshop for the souvenir market.
Material
Mixed metals; primarily cast brass or pot metal with worn silver-plate (EPNS) and oxidized bronze-tone finishes. Not solid silver.
Dimensions
Estimated 15-20cm in length; approximately 400-600 grams; built for tabletop stability.
Description
An eccentric mid-century tabletop curiosity, this piece depicts a miniature double-barreled cannon being manned by a stylized soldier. Originally intended as a desk lighter or smoking accessory, the 'cannon' theme was a popular motif for masculine giftware throughout the 1950s. The surface shows a heavy patina indicative of age and use, with the silver plating having largely worn away to reveal the yellow-toned base metal beneath.
Key Features
Dual-barrel design; integrated soldier-figure handle; functional rotating spoked wheels; modular lighter inserts in the muzzles.
Material & Composition
Mixed metals; primarily cast brass or pot metal with worn silver-plate (EPNS) and oxidized bronze-tone finishes. Not solid silver.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized and tarnished silver plating over base metal; features a textured soldier figure and spoked wheels; industrial 'battle-worn' aesthetic.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible precious metal hallmarks; potentially marked 'Made in Japan' or 'Silverplate' on the underside of the carriage or the base of the lighter inserts.
Construction Details
Mass-produced cast metal parts; wheels are pinned to an axle; soldier figure is likely cast separately and soldered or screwed to the tail trail.
Functional Features
Double-barrel configuration where one barrel acts as a flint-striker lighter and the other serves as a vessel or snuffing tool; carriage acts as a stand.
Handle & Grip Details
Features a soldier figure at the rear serving as a decorative grip/handle for positioning the item; wheels allow for movement across a desk.
Craftsmanship Details
Commercial-grade sand casting; visible mold lines on the soldier figure and wheel spokes; utilitarian assembly rather than fine silversmithing.
Authentication Indicators
Lack of lion passant or .925 stamps indicates this is not sterling; the 'pitting' on the surface is characteristic of aged white metal or cast brass rather than high-purity silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Japan or Germany; common in the post-war export market for masculine desk accessories and executive gifts.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Mid-20th Century (1940-1960); historical revival style referencing 18th-century artillery.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950s; based on the casting quality, the subject matter, and the specific wear of the plating on base metal.
Cultural Significance
Represents the mid-century trend of 'miniature' mechanical desk toys, which allowed men of the era to display professional status mixed with hobbyist interests.
Condition Notes
Fair condition; significant loss of silver plating ('bleeding' of base metal), heavy oxidation and surface grime, missing flint/wick components for functionality.
Value Estimate
$40 - $85 USD; value is primarily in the novelty/tobacciana collectibility rather than precious metal content.
Care & Maintenance
Do not use aggressive silver dips as they may damage the base metal; clean with a soft dry cloth and a mild non-abrasive metal polish like Autosol only if restoration is desired.
Similar Pieces
Negbaur Cannon Lighters; Ronson 'Adonis' military commemorative pieces; generally less valuable than sterling silver equivalent snuffers.
Interesting Facts
Items like this were often sold in military PX (Post Exchange) stores or high-end tobacconists during the 1950s as symbols of 'The Executive Warrior'.