W.W & S Sterling Silver Cigarette Case, Birmingham 1945

1945 Sterling Silver Cigarette Case by W.W & S – Birmingham Hallmarked

A handsome 1945 sterling silver cigarette case by W.W & S, hallmarked in Birmingham 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 “PAJ”.

Condition

There are a few very light surface marks and scratches commensurate with age and use; however, there are no dents or dings.

The interior is finished in gold gilt and shows only light signs of use. The original elastic retaining strap remains intact, although it does show signs of wear consistent with age. 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: W.W & S
• Date: 1945
• Assay Office: Birmingham
• Fineness: sterling silver

Measurements

• Length: 11.4cm
• Width: 8.5cm
• Weight: 175g

A Case from 1945

Hallmarked in 1945 – the year the Second World War came to an end – this sterling silver cigarette case comes from a time when a fine silver case was one of the most treasured personal possessions a gentleman could own. Cases like this were often given as gifts to mark a special occasion, a homecoming or a long service, and were frequently engraved with the owner’s initials, just like this one.

Today, vintage silver cigarette cases are popular well beyond smokers. At 175g, this is a solid and substantial piece of silver, and many collectors use cases like this to hold business cards, cards and notes, or simply display them as a fine example of mid-century British silversmithing.

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. As well as catching the light beautifully, the pattern provides grip and helps to disguise everyday wear – which is why it was so popular on cigarette cases, compacts and vesta cases. To learn how to read the Birmingham hallmarks on this piece, see our guide to UK hallmarking, or visit the Birmingham Assay Office.

A handsome and highly collectible mid-century silver cigarette case, combining classic engine-turned decoration with a gilt interior and original retaining strap. An appealing addition for collectors of antique silver, tobacciana or vintage personal accessories – and a distinguished gift for anyone born in 1945.

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.

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 1945 sterling 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.