1898 Sterling Silver Thimble in Leather Case by Henry Griffith & Sons | Victorian Sewing Collectible

For the artisan … a stunning sterling silver thimble, size 15, by Henry Griffith & Sons of Birmingham, hallmarked for 1898-99 and complete with its original domed leather presentation case.  Featuring a crisp diamond-knurled crown and a finely engraved rosette border, this is a personal object from the late Victorian era of uncommon quality and charm that would make a memorable gift for the gentleman collector.

Henry Griffith & Sons were established in Birmingham in the 1850s and by the end of the century had grown into one of the largest producers of silver thimbles in Britain. Employing hundreds of workers, they turned out millions of thimbles each year, supplying jewelers and haberdashers across Britain and the Empire. Their output ranged from simple workaday pieces to finely ornamented gift thimbles like this example, intended as much for sentiment as for sewing.

In Victorian households, thimbles were essential to daily life.  Sterling silver examples like ours signaled value and permanence, and were frequently purchased as gifts to mark milestones such as coming of age, engagement, or marriage. Presentation cases — like the domed leather example here — were made to protect the silver and to display the thimble when given, reinforcing its role as both practical tool and keepsake.

Dimensions: (Thimble) 1” x 11/16” (base); (Case) 1-3/8” x 1” x 1-1/8” (Base)
Weight: 0.4 oz (combined)

Condition notes: Thimble in excellent antique condition with no dents, splits, or distortions. Hallmarks are clear and fully legible, and both the diamond-knurled crown and rosette border remain crisp and well-defined. Interior is clean with no signs of corrosion. Presentation case structurally sound and closes firmly, with hinge and clasp in good working order. Exterior leather covering shows significant surface wear, flaking, and small punctures consistent with age, while interior retains original blue velvet and cream silk linings with expected fading and light soiling. Other items in photos not included.

Unless noted, all items are hand-wrapped and gift-boxed. We offer flat rate shipping via USPS Ground Advantage for $10, or USPS Priority Mail for $15. Orders over $100 ship free via USPS Priority Mail — any shipping charges for orders over $100 will be refunded after checkout. We pack with safety and care using recycled and recyclable materials whenever possible.

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