An elegant “Strikeesi” George V sterling silver vesta case with marks for Birmingham, 1922, Arthur Johnson Smith. Active from 1889 to 1927, Johnson Smith’s premies were at the Variety Works on Frederick Street, Birmingham.
A rare piece of advertising history, this contains its original advertising card within. This would have been a high-quality promotional item that was featured in Strikeesi’s advertising, as Strikeesi was a a premium match brand of the day. For a piece of antique smoking paraphernalia to retain its original advertising materials is very rare, and this rarity will only increase with time.
This exact example was featured on page .37 of the book “Match Holders” by Ian Spellerberg and came directly from his estate.
Gilded interior, with blank cartouche and engine-turned Art Deco details to body.
Price marked at $700 AUD.
Measurements: 37.3 grams total weight, 5.2 by 42.3cm measurements.
Excellent antique condition with minor wear overall commensurate with age, marks crisp and clear. Slight loss of flint to the base.
