Hilliard & Thomason, Antique Sterling Silver Snuff Box

Hilliard & Thomason, Antique Sterling Silver Snuff Box

This antique sterling silver snuff box features an oval, pebble-like design with a hinged lid. It is crafted from sterling silver with visible wear and patina, indicative of its age. The interior of the lid and base are gilded (gold-washed) to protect the silver from the corrosive effects of tobacco. The exterior showcases a weathered, textured finish, adding to its antique charm. The hallmarks on the interior lid and base identify its maker and origin.

Maker: The hallmark "H&T" likely refers to Hilliard & Thomason, a Birmingham-based silversmith active during the Victorian and Edwardian eras.
Origin: The lion passant hallmark indicates it is sterling silver (.925 purity), the anchor denotes Birmingham, and the letter "C" represents a date letter that can be used to determine the exact year of production.
Use: Snuff boxes were commonly used in the 18th and 19th centuries to store powdered tobacco, known as snuff, which was inhaled for recreational purposes.

Item will ship Priority Mail, included in price. ◡̈