Anyone have an idea what this little metal box is??
by
Renep
+26
Measures 2.25" High, 2" wide and about 1.5 " deep. Maybe pewter? Ring box? Any thoughts will be appreciated. The bottom has RSP Co 917
19 answers
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Pretty sure this is a Victorian jewel box. The lining would either be a silk-like material or velvet. It is most likely silverplate, of which most of it has been lost. I wouldn't worry about the silver loss. That gives it character. As for the marks, they are English: R.S.P.Co Raeno Silver Plate Co Ltd , mark entered in 1913 Birmingham 1917 hallmark
Swan Road Designs
on Jan 18, 2015
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Structurally, it appears sound, but with all the silver loss, it isn't worth very much. It's lovely and will be a nice addition to a table or dresser.
Swan Road Designs
on Jan 18, 2015
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http://www.terapeak.com/product-value/collectibles/small-vintage-floral-brass-vanity-jewelry-trinket-box-r-s-p-co-917/390597299957/
Monica
on Jan 19, 2015
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Have you tried to polish it? Take it in to an antiques dealer or jeweller to get the marks interpreted or try to look up on Net. Think 917 on the old system meant 22 K gold. The letters probably refer to the maker.
Marion Nesbitt
on Jan 19, 2015
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I don't think this is a jewelry box although that's a good use for it. I think it's a butter bowl. Back in the day, butter came in round cakes about this size.
Toni Morris
on Jan 19, 2015
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Back in the early 60's I received several larger versions of this from my father. They were always lined in red velvet. Jewelry boxes with a VERY thin coating of silver plate over a cast alloy metal. Just a guess. Good luck
Kathy Heimann
on Jan 19, 2015
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I think these were called jewelry "caskets"...
Tam
on Jan 19, 2015
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917 in jewelry means 22 ct. gold so it could be white gold & not silver
Beth Beach
on Jan 19, 2015
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depending on it's age, could be a gentleman's "snuff" container
Eileen
on Jan 19, 2015
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.917 is a silver mark as well
Beth Beach
on Jan 19, 2015
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This is indeed a "jewelry casket" It is made of "pot metal", of the Victorian Era and the 917 means it is platted with either silver or a gold wash. IF you try to polish it, more than likely more of the platted finish will come off. People that collect these are used to them in this condition. Linings were either velvet or satin. This piece in the San Francisco area would sell for around $25.00. These come in many different sizes. One in better condition would probably sell for upwards of 45.00. They were also reproduced in the 1980's by Silver companies, when Victorian items were having a revival. Have had many of these little treasures as an Antique Dealer of over 30 years. Cute piece.
The Bohemian Rose
on Jan 19, 2015
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Thank you - - very informative. If we were closer - - I'd bring it to you :)
Renep
on Jan 19, 2015
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I've purchased these sweet boxes (caskets) for many years. I have always loved them. These were for jewelry. They were lined with either velvet/silk. I think somewhere on the internet you could find liquid silver; for polishing. These boxes were a pot metal then a very thin finish of silver plating. You could also go to a craft store and purchase the silver rubbing paste (rub & buff). It would highlight the box but let the metal still shine through. They are NOT butter or snuff boxes. These boxes are also found in a gold guilding.
Had272500
on Jan 19, 2015
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it appears to be an old rosary box
Neenee
on Jan 19, 2015
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to collect hair in.
Theresa Faughnan Burke
on Jan 19, 2015
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Hmmm I wouldn't put it in a garage sale, It could be worth more than a pretty penny! Gargae sale shoppers want to pay only 5 cents to a few bucks.
Tierre Christopher
on Jan 20, 2015
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My Grandmother and Mom always told me they were used to hold pockets of baby hair. These were generally curls from the first hair cut, tied with blue for boys and pink for girls. Even if it's not the correct answer it's worked for our family for at least 3 generations.
Victoria S.
on Jan 26, 2015
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The SP stands for "Silver Plate" which is certainly what it apears to be. The R would likely be the manufacturer. I agree it is a keepsake box for a baby's lock of hair and first tooth.
Lisa B.
on Jul 02, 2015
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Most of them were lined in silk or satin
Gail McCain Harp
on Jul 02, 2015
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