William Neale Ltd Silver Cigarette Case – Birmingham 1931

Art Deco Silver Cigarette Case by William Neale Ltd – Birmingham 1931

A handsome Art Deco silver cigarette case by William Neale Ltd, hallmarked in Birmingham in 1931 and presented in good overall condition for its age. It displays light signs of use and wear consistent with careful ownership.

The case features an attractive engine-turned design to both the front and reverse, with the front additionally engraved with a monogram incorporating the initials “AMH”.

Condition

There are a few light surface marks and scratches, together with three very light dings to the reverse, one of which is slightly more noticeable than the others.

The interior is finished in gold gilt and shows signs of age and use commensurate with its vintage. The original elastic retaining strap remains intact and in good condition. The edges of the case appear to have been rose gold plated at some point in its history; however, much of this finish has worn away over time. The latch and release button operate smoothly, opening and closing securely.

Please study the photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description and condition report. Extra photos or videos are available on request – just contact us.

Fully Hallmarked

• Maker: William Neale Ltd
• Date: 1931
• Assay Office: Birmingham
• Fineness: sterling silver

Measurements

• Length: 8.4cm
• Width: 7.2cm
• Weight: 101g

The Golden Age of the Cigarette Case

The late 1920s and 1930s were the height of the Art Deco era, and the silver cigarette case became one of its defining accessories. Elegant, practical and often engraved with the owner’s initials, a fine silver case was a symbol of style for both men and women, carried in a jacket pocket or evening bag and given as a gift for birthdays, anniversaries and other special occasions.

Birmingham was at the heart of this trade, with its Jewellery Quarter home to many of the country’s leading makers of small silverware – including William Neale Ltd, whose cases are well regarded by collectors today. At a compact 8.4cm, this Art Deco silver cigarette case is a comfortable pocket size, and it would equally suit business cards, cards and notes today.

Engine-Turned Decoration

Engine turning (also known as guilloché) is a decorative technique in which a rose engine lathe cuts fine, repeating geometric patterns into the silver. The crisp, geometric look suited the Art Deco style perfectly, and as well as catching the light beautifully, it provides grip and helps to disguise everyday wear. To learn how to read the Birmingham hallmarks on this case, see our guide to UK hallmarking, or visit the Birmingham Assay Office.

A handsome and highly collectible Art Deco-era silver cigarette case, combining elegant engine-turned decoration with its original gilt interior and retaining strap. An appealing addition for collectors of antique silver, tobacciana or vintage personal accessories – and a distinguished gift for anyone who loves the style of the 1930s.

Explore More Silver

Browse more pieces like this in our silver boxes collection, see our full range of hallmarked silver, or take a look at our silver collectables and antique silver. You may also like our 1945 sterling silver cigarette case by W.W & S.

Why Buy from Simply Collectable

Simply Collectable has been buying and selling antiques, hallmarked silver, watches and collectables since 2015, with more than 3,300 sales completed. Every item is personally photographed and described by us, with any marks, wear or damage pointed out clearly so you know exactly what you are buying. If you have any questions about this cigarette case or its condition, please get in touch and we will be happy to help.

Delivery & Returns

This Art Deco silver cigarette case comes with free UK delivery and is dispatched within 1–2 working days, sent by Royal Mail Special Delivery. Like everything we sell, it can be returned within 30 days. See our delivery & shipping and refunds & returns pages for full details.