A substantial sterling silver matchbox cover by Elkington & Co Ltd, hallmarked Birmingham 1918. The rectangular form features an oval striking aperture and a personalised inscription reading “FROM JAS. FLOWER & SONS / XMAS 1919”, marking it as a presentation piece gifted in the first post-war Christmas following World War I.
The craftsmanship is unmistakably Elkington - sleek, functional, and elegantly balanced. The hallmarks are crisp, and the silver retains its original aged patina, a testament to over a century of use and preservation.
Details
Sterling silver (92.5%)
Maker: Elkington & Co Ltd, Birmingham
Hallmarks: Birmingham 1918 (“u”)
Weight: 29 g
Dimensions: Standard matchbox size
Inscription: FROM JAS. FLOWER & SONS / XMAS 1919
Era: Late Edwardian / early interwar period
Why It Matters
This piece bridges a pivotal historical moment - a utilitarian luxury object transformed into a symbol of endurance and renewal. Gifts like this were often given by employers or firms to commemorate loyalty and service after the Great War. The Jas. Flower & Sons engraving ties it directly to a Birmingham-based metalworking and manufacturing lineage, deepening its regional and historical value.
A substantial sterling silver matchbox cover by Elkington & Co Ltd, hallmarked Birmingham 1918. The rectangular form features an oval striking aperture and a personalised inscription reading “FROM JAS. FLOWER & SONS / XMAS 1919”, marking it as a presentation piece gifted in the first post-war Christmas following World War I.
The craftsmanship is unmistakably Elkington - sleek, functional, and elegantly balanced. The hallmarks are crisp, and the silver retains its original aged patina, a testament to over a century of use and preservation.
Details
Sterling silver (92.5%)
Maker: Elkington & Co Ltd, Birmingham
Hallmarks: Birmingham 1918 (“u”)
Weight: 29 g
Dimensions: Standard matchbox size
Inscription: FROM JAS. FLOWER & SONS / XMAS 1919
Era: Late Edwardian / early interwar period
Why It Matters
This piece bridges a pivotal historical moment - a utilitarian luxury object transformed into a symbol of endurance and renewal. Gifts like this were often given by employers or firms to commemorate loyalty and service after the Great War. The Jas. Flower & Sons engraving ties it directly to a Birmingham-based metalworking and manufacturing lineage, deepening its regional and historical value.
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