Antique Sterling Silver & 18 Karat Gold S.O. Bigney Co. Matchbook Case Chatelaine

In business from 1896 to 1946, the S.O. Bigney Company gained renown for their high quality jewelry and exquisite use of gold.

The front of the case features wonderful engine-turned decoration; the areas of sterling silver have an elegant linear pattern while the gold stripes feature a slightly more complex geometric pattern.

As you can see, a monogram reading “GR” has been inscribed into the front of the case in elegant script. The background of the inscription is the only area on the cover that is smooth.

The sides and back of the case remain smooth, without the engine-turned decoration. The case closes securely with a simple push-latch in the front.

The interior of the case features two small prongs which are meant to snuggly hold a book of matches. Each exhibits several hallmarks; the left reads “A.R.T. MFG, Co. N.Y. Pat. Nov 29th 1904” while the right prong reads “S.O.B Sterling”.

There is a mark on the front of the case which reads “Sterling” and another on the top-left that reads “Ster.18K.Gold Stripe”.

Though the case exhibits some minor scratching and darkening (particularly on the interior) it remains in good vintage condition overall.

Measurements: 2 ¼” tall, 1 5/8” wide, 3/8”-1/4” thick Weight: 29.5 grams (1.04 oz)

Item ID: 5700