This is a large Silver cigarette case with an unusual opening, by the illustrious silversmiths A & J Zimmerman, & fully hallmarked (x5) for Birmingham 1919.

The case is believed to have belonged to Robert Barclay Fox of Grove Hill, Falmouth, & bears the specific crest & motto of the Fox of Grove Hill family, a highly influential Quaker family whose history has been extremely well documented from the 17th C. onwards.

The case is rectangular in form, with a curved profile to ensure a comfortable fit in a pocket, etc.

The case has a very unusual 'gatefold' opening: there are two sprung, push buttons on opposite edges of the case which, when depressed, allows both halves of the front of the case to hinge open (the hinges being spring assisted).

The case has a vermeil interior with three compartments, each with their original elastic retaining bands.

The case is fully hallmarked to the main compartment with the makers mark 'AZJ' (Arthur & John Zimmerman), the anchor (Birmingham), the lion passant (925 Sterling), & the date letter 'u' (1919 - 1920). The two 'half' compartments both carry the makers mark, lion passant, & date letter, with one side also carrying the retailers mark of 'O LAMBERT - 9 FENCHURCH ST - LONDON EC', & both opening buttons bear the lion passant.

The front of the case is engraved with the family crest & motto of the Fox family of Grove Hill, Falmouth, Cornwall, & consists of a fox sejant, it's front paw resting on a fleur-de-lis, & the motto 'FAIRE SANS DIRE' (to do without saying).

Robert Barclay Fox (1873 - 1934) inherited Grove Hill upon his fathers death, & as well as being a senior partner in the family conglomerate, was the High Sheriff of Cornwall in 1920, the Consul for Denmark, & the Vice-Consul for Germany, Finland, & Norway (where he received a Knighthood of the Order of St Olav from the King).

Condition is Fine, with no damage & an immaculate interior - excellent for it's 90 years.

The case measures approx 4 5/8" long by 3 3/8" wide, & just over 9" when fully open (approx 11.7cm, 8.6cm, & 23.2cm).

The weight is 171.8 g, 6.06 oz, or 5.52 Troy - a substantial case of the highest quality.

PLEASE NOTE : We are based in Scotland, UK. If you wish to purchase in GBP (£250), please email or phone. We accept all major credit / debit cards, paypal, cheques, or payment upon collection.