A very fine and impressive antique George IV English 18 carat gold snuff box; part of our silverware collection

Description

This very fine antique George IV 18ct gold snuff box has a rectangular form with rounded corners.

The snuff box is embellished to all sides, including the base, with fine textured zig-zag engine turned guilloche decoration*.

The shaped thumbpiece is ornamented with profuse chased floral decoration.

The hinged cover opens to reveal the plain hallmarked interior.

The hallmarks struck to the interior of this impressive box include:

Maker’s mark: W.E (William Edwards)

Duty mark: Reigning sovereign

Town mark: Leopard head (London, England)

Date mark: i (1824)

Assay mark: Crown (London, England)

Gold quality/purity mark: 18 (18 carat)

* Items, such as this snuff box, that were frequently handled, often had surfaces embellished with engine turned guilloche decoration to avoid finger prints detracting from the overall appearance of the piece.

Condition

This antique snuff box is an exceptional gauge of gold, fine quality and in excellent condition in keeping with age.

Full hallmarks struck to the interior of the main compartment, and part hallmarks, as expected, struck to the interior of the cover are all clear.

Reflections in photography may detract from the true representation of this impressive antique George IV piece.

Dimensions

Length 9.2cm/3.6"

Height 3.3cm/1.3"

Depth 5.2cm/2.1"

Weight

6 troy ounces/187g

Read the brief history of antique snuff boxes

Video

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