Vexillology interest – A Victorian sterling silver and enamel novelty cigarette case, Chester 1896 by Sampson Mordan and Co for William Neale

Of curved rectangular form, push button release, with enamel decoration of four pennants upon a flagstaff using the maritime commercial code flag symbols (used from 1857-1902), reading VSMF. Engraved to the reverse with N. D. Turner from W. L. C & C. L. C. November 1896. Gilt interior. Fully and part-marked. Housed in a later fitted case.

Length – 9 cm / 3.5 inches

Weight – 116 grams / 3.72 ozt

An example enamelled in the same fashion marked for London 1896 by Sampson Mordan and Co, was sold these rooms, 19 March 2024, lot 60 (£625 incl. prem)

A vesta case enamelled in this fashion, marked for Birmingham 1889 by George Unite was sold these rooms 11 June 2024, lot 28 (£693 incl. prem)