When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Antique German 800 Silver Cigarette Case — Hammered Finish, Dated 1922 Family Dedication
A genuine piece of Weimar-era German silver with real history attached. The case has an all-over hand-hammered pebble finish that gives it a soft, textured sheen, with rounded corners and a thumb-catch closure.
The interior is gilt-washed and carries a beautifully hand-engraved presentation inscription in German script:
Unserer lieben Erna / Onkel Bruno und Tante Trude / 15. Juni 1922
(\"To our dear Erna, from Uncle Bruno and Aunt Trude, 15 June 1922.\")
The opposite side and lower panel also carry several scratch-engraved signatures added later by hand, including what reads as Herbert and Max — the sort of informal keepsake signing found on cases carried and passed around among friends. Both interior halves retain their original woven fabric retaining straps.
Details
- Material: German silver, 800 standard
- Marks: Struck with German national hallmarks — crescent moon and crown — alongside the 800 fineness number. The marks are shallow and worn from age; see the close-up photo.
- Weight: 50 g
- Size: approx. 3.25 in x 2.25 in / 8.3 cm x 5.7 cm
- Interior: Gilt wash, twin fabric retaining straps
- Engraving: Presentation inscription dated 15 June 1922, plus later hand-scratched signatures
- Era: Antique, German, 1922
Condition
Fair to good antique condition with considerable honest wear, offered as found and unpolished.
The exterior shows heavy tarnish, darkening in the recesses of the hammered texture, and overall surface wear. The fabric straps are yellowed but intact and still functional. The scratch-engraved signatures inside are deliberate period additions, not damage, but they are irregular and clearly visible.
The hinge is sound and the case opens and closes with the catch holding. Some light denting and distortion to the rims consistent with age and pocket carry. No cracks, splits, or repairs. Please review all photos closely, as they show the actual item you will receive and form part of the description.
