A sterling silver and gilt lined cigar and cigarette combination case. This wonderful and high quality case is designed to hold cigars on the right side, vertically, and then cigarettes on the left, horizontally. The original purple elasticated straps are present along with the clips to hold them in place. The right, cigar side, is also made so that it is slightly deeper in order to hold the thicker gauge cigars. The shape, much like with most hip flasks, has a curvature to the body, in order for it to sit more comfortably in the breast pocket. There is a good thickness of the gauge of metal making sure it can stand up to the rigours of strenuous use. The case was made in Birmingham, England, in 1903. It has the makers marks of D & F, for Deakin & Francis. They were a fairly large scale silversmith in Birmingham producing a very wide variety of objects. They are still in existence today, and are one of the very last remaining silversmiths that originated from this great powerhouse of English production. There is also the addition of a hand engraved retailer mark along the inside lip of the case. This is signed for "Edward & Sons, Glasgow'. Founded in Glasgow by George Edward in 1838 as a retail business. They acquired the premises at 92, Buchanan Street by 1863, later extending it to take in No.96. In c.1874 they opened a London branch at Mansion House Buildings, on Cheapside. Edward & Sons were converted into a limited liability company in 1925. The company relocated to 67, St. Vincent Street, Glasgow, in 1963, and were later absorbed in the Mappin & Webb group of companies. The condition of the piece is exceptional, and shows no signs of damage. The button release for the clasp still functions perfectly, and the lid has a satisfying snap upon closure. The original gilt wash is present and also has a warm, attractive patinated hue to metal.
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