Chamaco Collection Silver Plated Pocket Ashtray
Cigarette Case · Chamaco Collection, known for vintage mid-century smoking accessories and novelty items.
Pattern: Chamaco Collection branded line, mid-20th century production.
Type
Cigarette Case
Maker
Chamaco Collection, known for vintage mid-century smoking accessories and novelty items.
Material
Silver Plated base metal, commonly nickel silver or brass underneath, with a hinged mechanical lid.
Dimensions
Estimated pocket size, approximately 2.5 to 3 inches in diameter and under 1 inch in height.
Description
A charming and functional vintage pocket ashtray from the Chamaco Collection. It features a rounded, compact silver-plated body with a hinged spring-loaded lid adorned with the distinctive Chamaco Collection signature logo. Designed for portability, it represents a classic mid-century smoker's accessory.
Key Features
Distinctive Chamaco Collection script logo, spring-loaded push-button lid mechanism, and compact pocket-friendly rounded form.
Material & Composition
Silver Plated base metal, commonly nickel silver or brass underneath, with a hinged mechanical lid.
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver plate exterior with an engraved or stamped script logo reading Chamaco Collection on the top lid.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped with the Chamaco Collection script logo directly on the push-button lid.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed metal body with a spring-loaded hinged lid mechanism operated by a thumb lever.
Functional Features
Spring-loaded pop-open lid mechanism designed to contain ash and cigarette butts securely for pocket carry.
Handle & Grip Details
Features a small integrated thumb lever and hinge at the top for operating the lid.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard mid-century mass production featuring stamped metal components and a functional mechanical spring hinge.
Authentication Indicators
Clear branding stamp on the lid, period-correct construction techniques, and typical wear patterns for mid-century silver-plated novelty items.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in the United States or Mexico, common for mid-century novelty items and smoking accessories.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1940s-1960s), reflecting the height of cigarette smoking culture.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950s-1960s based on the typography and popularity of portable pocket ashtrays during that era.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the mid-century smoking culture and the proliferation of branded promotional and novelty lifestyle accessories.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition with moderate surface tarnish, light scratches, and minor wear to the silver plating consistent with age and use.
Value Estimate
15 to 45 USD, depending on overall condition and collector demand for mid-century smoking memorabilia.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a soft cloth and mild silver polish to preserve the plating, avoiding harsh abrasives that could wear down the stamped logo.
Similar Pieces
Vintage pocket ashtrays by Ronson, Evans, and various Sterling or silver-plated souvenir makers.
Interesting Facts
Pocket ashtrays became exceptionally popular in the mid-20th century as smoking transitioned from a private luxury to a ubiquitous social habit in public spaces.