Antique English (Birmingham) hinged matchsafe dated 1901 by silversmiths Arthur Cook, decorated with a hand engraved floral and scroll work motif with the initials 'DAJ'. The bottom of the box has a serrated striker. The inside of the case is gilded, due to the fact that the sulfur heads of the matches would tarnish and eat away at the silver.
Matchsafes were popular amongst gentlemen in the late 1800's, and were carried in their coat pockets. By the turn of the century women were permitted to smoke in public therefore the market for them expanded. They ranged from a variety of materials and from plain to very ornate.
ID#: PEN370
Metal: Sterling silver
Dimensions: 1 3/8 inch (L) x 1 inch (W) x 1/4 inch (D)
Weight: 12.01g
Markings:
A.C - makers mark - Arthur Cook
Anchor - Birmingham
Lion - standard mark - Sterling silver .925
b - date letter - 1901
Condition: Minor wear consistent with its 123 year age.
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