Silver cigarette cases and card cases are fabulous antiques which make perfect gifts for anyone who appreciates craftsmanship, items of historical interest and unique pieces which cannot be replicated or found elsewhere.
Antique cigarette cases were popular for much of the Victorian era, with a particular fashion for cases with ‘erotic’ motifs and decoration. These cases were preferred by gentleman over paper cigarette cartons, and the tendency in these times was to believe that smoking was a pursuit for men rather than women.
Card cases came into popular use in the late eighteenth century, when it became fashionable for people- particularly gentleman - to leave a calling card after having visited someone’s home or business. These calling cards were used by high status members of society, and so the card cases that they held their calling cards in were highly decorated, often with unusual, exotic or luxurious elements such as ivory, tortoiseshell and enamel designs.
Antique silver cigarette and card cases continue to be incredibly popular, and are wonderful antiquities as well as being pieces which continue to be practical for daily use.
Learn more about the history of boxes and cases
Browse our collection of antique cigarette and card cases below
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