Instead of being assayed locally in Birmingham, Jenkins sent this premium piece to the prestigious Chester Assay Office. Because the Chester office permanently closed its doors in 1962, silver carrying the Chester town mark commands a significant premium among collectors today.
Design and Dimensions
The exterior features an elegant rectangular silhouette with cut-away octagonal corners. The front cover is intricately hand-engraved with classic Edwardian flowing foliate scrollwork and floral motifs, which remain crisp and well-preserved. It measures a compact and discreet 20 mm by 17 mm and weighs approximately 4 grams, featuring a sturdy top cylinder hinge and suspension loop originally meant for a gentleman’s Albert watch chain or a lady’s chatelaine.
A Fascinating Dual History
True to its original 1913 purpose, the interior reveals historic purple/blue ink stains left behind by water-soluble Edwardian postage stamps that bled into the raw silver over decades of pocket use.
Later in its life, a previous owner beautifully repurposed the utility piece into a sentimental photo locket. The interior currently contains manually hand-cut paper backings and clear plastic covers designed to hold two miniature family photographs. This charming “make-do” adaptation tells a beautiful story of an heirloom being adapted across generations.
Condition Report
The piece is in good antique condition with mostly clear, readable hallmarks on the interior. The hinge is secure, and the case opens and closes properly. The external shows minimal wear.
Specifications
- Material: Solid Sterling Silver (.925)
- Weight: Approx. 4 grams
- Dimensions: 20 mm x 17 mm (excluding top loop)
- Maker: Albert Ernest Jenkins (A.E.J)
- Assay Office: Chester, England
- Date Letter: N (1913)
Perfect as a unique gift, a historic pendant for a necklace, or an addition to a specialized collection of novelty silver and stamp fobs.
