ca 1904 Krumm Heavily Hallmarked Green Leather and Sterling Silver Coin Purse

The leather is a rich and elegant shade of deep forest green and exhibits some wear, but we think this really adds to the time-enhanced antique appeal.

Both corners are adorned with beautiful sterling and swirling silver scrollwork.

A flap keeps the purse securely shut with a small push-clasp. There is an inscription on the sterling clasp as well as the sterling cap on the end of the leather flap. Both read “MJ”.

There are several hallmarks present on both sterling corners, the first of which reads “.925” (the piece has been fully tested to ensure silver purity).

You will find a die-stamped triangle (or Delta) next to this; this mark would have indicated that the silver was imported to Birmingham from a foreign maker.

The lower-case “e” that accompanies the other marks symbolizes the silver’s year of manufacture, which in this case is 1904.

You will also notice a maker’s mark on each corner reading “L.K”. These are the initials of a silver mounter of some renown: Ludwig Krumm. Krumm specialized in purses of this kind.

When the purse is opened, you can see that there is another ball-hinged frame purse (though this one is not made with sterling). There are also some small pockets for cash, cards, and coins on the inside.

An extraordinary sterling curb chain emanates from the inner-frame. Amazingly, every single link is marked British silver’s most recognizable symbol: the lion passant.

The chain is wonderfully substantial and bears an exquisite time-enhanced patina. The links graduate in size toward the center where they get larger.

There is, of course, some wear to the purse commensurate with its age. Overall, this little beauty remains in excellent antique condition.

Measurements: 4 ¾” long, 2 ¾” wide, ¾” deep Chain is 11 ¼” long, 4mm-7mm wide Weight: 88.8 grams (3.13 oz)

Item ID: 5863