Edwardian Sterling Silver Cigarette Case by Walker & Hall
Cigarette Case / Tobacciana · Walker & Hall, Sheffield, UK. Founded in 1845 by George Walker, later joined by Henry Hall. They were one of the most prolific and reputable silversmiths and manufacturing firms in Britain, holders of several Royal Warrants.
Pattern: Folio Engine Turned / Linear Pattern; generic bespoke production typical of late 19th and early 20th-century gentleman's accessories.
Type
Cigarette Case / Tobacciana
Maker
Walker & Hall, Sheffield, UK. Founded in 1845 by George Walker, later joined by Henry Hall. They were one of the most prolific and reputable silversmiths and manufacturing firms in Britain, holders of several Royal Warrants.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Features a gilt (vermeil) interior to prevent tobacco staining and corrosion. Total weight typically ranges 80-120 grams.
Dimensions
Standard size 8.5 x 7.5 cm (approx 3.3 x 3 inches). Weight estimated at 3.5 troy ounces.
Description
A classic rectangular sterling silver cigarette case featuring a sophisticated engine-turned exterior. The interior retains its original gold wash, showcasing the high-quality craftsmanship of Walker & Hall. Its slim, curved profile was designed to fit comfortably in a gentleman's breast pocket.
Key Features
Full Sheffield hallmarks, distinctive W&H maker's mark, engine-turned anti-fingerprint surface, and curved ergonomic shape.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Features a gilt (vermeil) interior to prevent tobacco staining and corrosion. Total weight typically ranges 80-120 grams.
Finish & Decoration
Engine-turned (guilloché) linear pattern on the exterior to provide grip and hide fingerprints. High-polish mirror finish on the edges. Rectangular cartouche likely present for engraving.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The image shows a full British hallmark sequence: 'W&H' for Walker & Hall; Lion Passant for Sterling (.925); Crown for Sheffield assay office; Date letter appears to be a lowercase 'r', 's', or 't' in a shield (c. 1909-1911).
Construction Details
Precision die-struck panels with hand-soldered bezels and hinges. The exterior features machine-assisted guilloché engraving.
Functional Features
Push-button thumbpiece release, integrated 'flush' hinge, and internal elasticated or silver-arm retainers for holding cigarettes.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; textured linear surface acts as a functional grip for the palm.
Craftsmanship Details
Excellent tension in the bezel fit; the alignment of the linear pattern across the hinge line indicates a high-tier manufacturing standard typical of Sheffield workshops.
Authentication Indicators
Clear and deep strike of the Sheffield hallmarks; consistent wear patterns on the raised engine-turned ridges; hallmark sequence matches the known W&H punch styles.
Origin & Manufacturing
Sheffield, England. Established center for British silversmithing excellence and industrial innovation.
Era & Period
Edwardian (1901-1910). Transitioning into the early Art Deco period, characterized by geometric engine-turned patterns.
Age Estimate
Circa 1910. The hallmarks and stylistic linear design point to the late Edwardian era just before WWI.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of early 20th-century social status and masculine etiquette, where the ritual of offering a cigarette from a silver case was a formal social gesture.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Shows minor surface abrasions consistent with pocket wear (rubbing). The hallmarks are crisp and legible. Movement of the hinge appears tight.
Value Estimate
$150 - $280 USD depending on the weight and presence/absence of a personalized monogram.
Care & Maintenance
Polish with a soft silver cloth like Hagerty's or Town Talk. Avoid silver dips which can strip the thin gilt interior layer. Store in a soft pouch to prevent pocket scratching.
Similar Pieces
Mappin & Webb engine-turned cases, Elkington & Co. cases. Differences usually lie in the hinge tightness and the specific gauge of silver used.
Interesting Facts
Walker & Hall provided silverware for the Titanic and and many fleets of the White Star Line, emphasizing their status as a premium manufacturer.