Early 20th Century Engine-Turned Sterling Silver Cigarette Case
Cigarette Case / Smoking Accessory · Likely American or British manufacturer (e.g., Webster Co., Gorham, or Birmingham-based makers like Walker & Hall). These firms were renowned for durable, stylish gentleman's accessories.
Pattern: Gentleman's Engine-Turned Stripe with Monogram Cartouche; production status: Discontinued/Antique.
Type
Cigarette Case / Smoking Accessory
Maker
Likely American or British manufacturer (e.g., Webster Co., Gorham, or Birmingham-based makers like Walker & Hall). These firms were renowned for durable, stylish gentleman's accessories.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid construction, likely weighing between 80-120 grams depending on internal bezel thickness.
Dimensions
Approximately 3.5 x 4.5 inches; designed for non-filtered cigarettes; estimated weight 3-4 troy ounces.
Description
A classic example of early 20th-century personal silver, this cigarette case features a sophisticated engine-turned finish designed to withstand daily use while maintaining a luster of luxury. The slim profile and curved corners allowed it to sit discreetly in a gentleman's breast pocket. It represents the height of functional Art Deco craftsmanship.
Key Features
Tight-fitting 'silent' snap closure, guilloché linear pattern, and iconic corner-set monogram cartouche.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid construction, likely weighing between 80-120 grams depending on internal bezel thickness.
Finish & Decoration
Art Deco style featuring linear engine-turned (guilloché) engraving to prevent fingerprints and scratches. Includes a small scalloped cartouche in the upper corner with a single-letter 'M' monogram in script.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually found on the interior lip or bezel; would typically include 'STERLING' or a Lion Passant, along with a maker's mark (e.g., 'W&H' or a bird-in-circle for Webster).
Construction Details
Two-part die-struck shells joined by a piano hinge; hand-soldered interior bezel/rim to create a snap-fit closure. Machine-turned decorative surface.
Functional Features
Spring-loaded clasp mechanism and an internal elastic or hinged silver bar (tension arm) to hold cigarettes in place.
Handle & Grip Details
No external handles; the rounded edges and textured surface provide ergonomic grip for jacket pocket retrieval.
Craftsmanship Details
The precision of the linear engine turning indicates high-quality industrial lathes, while the hand-finished hinge shows the era's blend of machine and manual labor.
Authentication Indicators
The crispness of the engine turning and the natural wear on the corners suggest authentic period use. Purity marks are expected on the interior gold-wash or silver rim.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States (Providence, RI) or England (Birmingham); mass-produced via industrial machinery but hand-finished for fitment.
Era & Period
Art Deco / Interwar Period (c. 1920-1940); identified by the geometric engine-turned pattern and slim, rectangular 'cigarette' form factor.
Age Estimate
Circa 1925-1935, based on the monogram style and the prevalence of engine turning during the peak of the smoking accessory market.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of status and modern urbanity in the early 1900s, reflecting the social etiquette of offering tobacco in a refined manner.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible surface scratches and a central tarnish/acid spot on the front face. The hinge appears slightly sprung (uneven gap between shells), requiring professional alignment.
Value Estimate
Market value ranges from $120 to $250 USD based on silver weight and maker prestige. The 'M' monogram slightly limits the broader market appeal.
Care & Maintenance
Polish with a high-quality cream like Wright's Silver Cream; avoid abrasive cloths that could wear down the fine engine-turned ridges. Store in a Pacific silver cloth sleeve.
Similar Pieces
Dunhill silver cases (higher value), Victorian chased foliate cases (earlier), and nickel-plated brass 'trench' cases (lower value).
Interesting Facts
Cigarette cases were popular military gifts during WWI and WWII, often engraved with personal messages. They fell out of fashion with the introduction of soft-pack filtered cigarettes and health awareness.