Sterling silver cigarette box - Birmingham 1906

Cigarette boxes were popular items in stylish homes in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. They are lined with cedar to help keep the tobacco fresh. This one was assayed in Birmingham in 1906 but unfortunately I can't make out the worn maker's mark. I love the entwined lettering of the monogram on this antique sterling silver box. There was real artistry in the personalisation of silver in the early twentieth century. Each letter is treated differently to make it easy to decipher. In terms of condition it has had some very minor knocks consistent with age and use. The lid doesn't close completely and if it bothers you the wood could easily be sanded to make it sit flush. 

While it was made to hold cigarettes it could easily be repurposed as a trinket box or small jewellery box. I made the small velvet disc for it as I have been storing jewellery in it and it can be included if that is your intention too. It is blue on one side and black on the other. 

Please look closely at the photographs as they form an important part of the description. If you have any questions please get in touch (contact@eldercroftandsons.co.nz).