This is a handsome and high quality Edwardian Sterling Silver Vesta Case. The case is oblong with engraved acanthus leaf decoration and a blank shield shaped cartouche on the front. The interior is gilded.

The vesta case was made in Birmingham by silversmiths John Collyer & Co and dates to 1906. John Collyer founded his firm in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter in 1900 and also registered a mark in Chester. The company were primarily electroplaters but also produced Sterling Silver items. They had a showroom in London’s Hatton Garden and were major suppliers to the hotel and restaurant trade as well as individual customers. They ceased trading in the late 1920s.

Condition is very good, with just the superficial surface wear that you would anticipate after 120 years of good service. The hinge is in full working order and the lid shuts securely. Please make sure to view all the photographs.

The vesta case measures 4.1cm / 1.6ins by 3cm / 1.2ins and weighs in at 18.3g / 0.65oz of solid Sterling Silver.

The hallmarks, on the inside rim, are nice and clear to read. They show the lion passant for Sterling Silver, the anchor assay mark for Birmingham, the date letter g for 1906 and the J.C & Co Ltd makers' mark for John Collyer & Co Ltd.