Presentation Sterling Silver Inscribed Cigar/Cigarette Box
Decorative Object / Cigarette Case & Smoking Accessories · Likely American silversmith such as Gorham, Tiffany & Co., or Reed & Barton; reputable for high-quality presentation hollowware.
Pattern: Custom Presentation Piece; features a scrolling foliate border typical of early-to-mid 20th-century commemorative gifts.
Type
Decorative Object / Cigarette Case & Smoking Accessories
Maker
Likely American silversmith such as Gorham, Tiffany & Co., or Reed & Barton; reputable for high-quality presentation hollowware.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) exterior; likely cedar or mahogany wood lining to preserve tobacco humidity.
Dimensions
Estimated 8 to 10 inches in length; approximately 3 to 4 inches in width. Weighted with wood lining; silver weight approx 300-500g.
Description
A substantial rectangular presentation box in sterling silver, featuring a textured 'sunburst' or engine-turned lid with a central medallion. The sides are polished and bear a long-form commemorative inscription, framed by ornate scrolling borders. The piece represents the pinnacle of corporate or civic appreciation gifts from the mid-century period.
Key Features
Extensive multi-line script engraving on the side; textured lid finish to hide fingerprints; high-quality applied floral borders.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) exterior; likely cedar or mahogany wood lining to preserve tobacco humidity.
Finish & Decoration
Engine-turned or textured lid with a central circular monogram cartouche (vacant); die-rolled floral scroll borders; mirror-polished sides with professional script engraving.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected marks on the base or rim include 'Sterling', a maker's hallmark (e.g., Gorham's lion/anchor/G), and a reference number.
Construction Details
Fabricated from sheet silver; die-rolled decorative borders applied with solder; hinged lid; timber-lined interior for structural rigidity.
Functional Features
Piano hinge for the lid; wooden liner for moisture control; dedicated engraving area for commemorative text.
Handle & Grip Details
Lid rests flush; no external handle; manual finger lift along the front edge of the lid.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality machine-assisted production with hand-finished engraving and assembly; the floral borders are particularly well-defined.
Authentication Indicators
Consistency of the engraving depth; sharpness of the die-rolled borders; presence of 'Sterling' stamp (internal/base).
Origin & Manufacturing
USA; likely manufactured in a New England silver hub like Providence, RI or Newark, NJ.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (c. 1940-1960); Neo-classical and Corporate Gift style common in the Mad Men era.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1965 based on the style of the script engraving and the box's proportions.
Cultural Significance
A relic of mid-century social customs where smoking was a standard part of business culture and silver gifts were the ultimate sign of status and tenure.
Condition Notes
Very Good; light surface tarnish and minor 'flea bite' dents on the lid. The central medallion shows signs of previous cleaning or potential monogram removal wear.
Value Estimate
$400 - $800 depending on total silver weight and the localized interest in the historical inscription.
Care & Maintenance
Hand polish with Wright's Silver Cream; avoid immersing in water due to the internal wood lining which can warp; store with anti-tarnish strips.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. 'Hedges' boxes; Gorham plain rectangular humidor boxes; Dunhill silver-plated cedar-lined boxes.
Interesting Facts
Boxes like these were frequently given to retiring board members or executives; the engraving often mentions specific years of service (e.g., 1930-1960).