Very Rare ANTIQUE TIFFANY sterling silver nutcracker-English King pattern

This incredibly rare sterling silver nutcracker in the English King pattern was made by Tiffany & Co. circa 1896. It has remained in the same family since it was purchased new in 1896. It has been used, but not abused so is in very good condition but with over 100 years of wear. It was originally gold plated but that has mostly worn off except there is a slight yellowish tint to the silver color. This could easily be re-gilded or removed. Patterns similar to English King were first used in France and England late in the eighteenth century and have remained among the most popular styles for flatware today. Tiffany & Co. first made its own version of English King in 1885. It harmonizes with any eighteenth-century-inspired style. The nutcracker is cleverly made so that it may be used in either direction to crack different sized nuts. It is marked Tiffany and Sterling but it was difficult to get clear pictures of the marks. It is engraved with the initials LR. This is a unique treasure for the discerning collector, but is definitely usable on any table today. This piece is quite weighty at almost 5 ozs and is over 5" long and about 1" at its' widest point.