1912 Sterling Silver Pencil Holder by William Vale & Sons of Birmingham

For the writer … a distinctive sterling silver pencil holder by William Vale & Sons, hallmarked for Birmingham 1912.  Measuring a compact 3 inches, it retains a working slide-action mechanism and its original loop for attaching to a gentleman’s watch chain.  It was designed to take threaded pencil inserts (not included here) which could be retracted when not in use.  Pencil holders like this reflected the fashion in the early 1900s for making everyday tools into refined personal accessories.  As an intriguing example of Edwardian design, it would make an ideal gift for a writer, collector, or anyone who appreciates old silver.

William Vale & Sons were established in Birmingham in the mid-1800s. By the 1880s they were advertising widely as manufacturers of pencil cases in silver, gold, ivory, and other materials, and held several patents for pencil holders and watch keys.  By 1884, they had opened branches in London and Glasgow, and in 1929, the firm exhibited at the British Industries Fair as “Manufacturers of Silver Pencil Cases and Novelties.”

Dimensions: 3-1/16” (without loop), 3-1/2 (with loop) x 7/16” x 7/16”
Weight: 0.5 oz.

Overall in excellent condition, displaying light wear consistent with age and use. Sterling silver body is smooth and well preserved, showing only minor surface marks from handling. Suspension loop intact and secure. Slide-action mechanism functions properly, extending and retracting as intended. Interior retains a brass-threaded fitting designed to accept pencil inserts (not included). Clear Birmingham hallmarks: maker’s mark “W.V&S” for William Vale & Sons, lion passant for sterling standard, anchor for Birmingham assay, and date letter “n” for 1912. Other items in photos not included.

Unless noted, all items are hand-wrapped, gift-boxed, and packed with care for secure delivery.  We offer flat rate shipping via USPS Ground Advantage for $10, or USPS Priority Mail for $15. Orders over $100 (not including taxes) 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.

Sorry, no returns or cancellations.  Please view all photos for more detail and feel free to contact the shop with any questions prior to purchase.