New York - Unique Examples
The 1892 United States Assay Office New York and twin antique pocket match safe. Early friction matches were know to ignite unexpectedly so pocket match safes were extremely popular between 1850 and 1915. In 2015 I had seen a similar pocket match safe but it was inscribed with dedication markings so I was extremely pleased to obtain this perfect example pictured above.
The second match safe contains three initials on the reverse but is otherwise yet another perfect example; this one with colorful toning. With the second acquisition, and by the unique cloverleaf hallmark, or maker's mark, I was able to trace the match safes back to the Howard Sterling Company from Providence, Rode Island. The Howard Sterling Company was only in business from 1878 to 1902 which authenticates the date and age of the match safes.
SILVER INGOTS