Plain Sterling Silver Circular Compact or Snuff Box
Personal Accessory - Pill Box, Snuff Box, or Compact · Indeterminate due to low image clarity; likely a commercial silversmith from the Mid-20th Century such as Gorham, Webster, or a European maker.
Pattern: Plain or Polished Minimalist; unpatterned production piece typical of functional personal silver.
Type
Personal Accessory - Pill Box, Snuff Box, or Compact
Maker
Indeterminate due to low image clarity; likely a commercial silversmith from the Mid-20th Century such as Gorham, Webster, or a European maker.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925 purity) or Silver Plate. Weight is estimated at 15-40 grams depending on whether it is hollow or weighted.
Dimensions
Estimated 2 to 2.5 inches in diameter (approx. 5-6 cm). Weighs approximately 0.5 to 1.5 troy ounces.
Description
A circular, silver-toned personal container with a high-polish finish. The item exhibits a simple, functionalist design common in mid-century personal accessories. Its flat surface is currently obscured by significant light glare and heavy micro-scratching, indicating frequent handling and use.
Key Features
Low-profile circular silhouette, lack of ornate decoration, and a focus on the material's natural luster.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925 purity) or Silver Plate. Weight is estimated at 15-40 grams depending on whether it is hollow or weighted.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish with heavy surface scratching and swirling. Minimalist aesthetic with no visible engraving, chasing, or repoussé work.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Marks are not clearly visible in this high-glare image. Usually found on the interior rim or the base as 'Sterling', '925', or a maker's hallmark.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed or die-struck circular form. Likely consists of two pieces (lid and base) joined by a flush hinge, though the hinge is not visible from this angle.
Functional Features
Hinged lid for storage of small items; potentially contained a mirror or sifter if intended as a powder compact.
Handle & Grip Details
No handle; features a smooth, rounded edge for pocket or handbag carry. May have a small thumb-piece or lip for opening.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality; smooth seams and consistent thickness suggest machine-stamped production with a hand-polished finish.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry and smoothness of the rim suggest professionally manufactured silver or high-quality plate rather than a hand-wrought piece. Needs hallmark verification.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or United Kingdom. Produced via industrial silver manufacturing processes common in centers like Providence, RI or Birmingham, UK.
Era & Period
Modern Era; likely mid-20th century (1940-1970) given the minimalist design and circular form.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1980. The wear patterns and style suggest Use over several decades.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the mid-century shift away from Victorian ornamentation toward sleek, 'streamline' modernism in everyday personal items.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Shows heavy 'pocket wear' including thousands of fine surface scratches and scuffs. High glare suggests a greasy surface or heavy tarnish buildup around the edges.
Value Estimate
$30 - $85 USD depending on weight and confirmation of silver purity (Sterling vs. Plate).
Care & Maintenance
Polish with a high-quality silver cream (e.g., Wright's) to remove micro-scratches. Store in a tarnish-resistant cloth pouch.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. plain round pill boxes (usually heavier/purer marks) or Webster Co. sterling compacts (often have engine-turned designs).
Interesting Facts
Simple silver boxes like this were popular gifts for bridesmaids, graduations, or as 'gentleman's pill boxes' during the mid-20th century.