Victorian Horn-Handled Adelaide Corkscrew with Silver-Plated Collar | Gentleman’s Antique Wine Accessory

For the collector …  a striking gentleman’s corkscrew from the late 1800s in natural horn (likely steer) with silver-plated collar, steel worm, suspension ring, and a small spike designed to break the string or wire securing a cork.  Made in England around 1885–1900, it’s compact, sturdy, and quietly rustic, and would make a standout addition to a home bar, wine rack or bookshelf display.

Known as an “Adelaide” corkscrew, this style was produced in large numbers in the Victorian period, most notably by Christopher Johnson & Co. of Sheffield.  While many were crafted in pressed horn or metal, our example features a smooth, naturally tapered horn handle and a well-finished collar that retains a bright finish and responds well to polish.  The pick at the end—often mistaken for a foil cutter—served a more practical function: breaking the waxed string or wire that once sealed bottles of wine or spirits.

Dimensions 5-1/8” (Including Pick) x 3-1/2” (Worm) x 7/8” (Handle) 
Weight: 1.9 ounces

Condition Notes: Overall in very good antique condition, with smooth horn handle showing light surface wear and scattered fine scratches consistent with age and use. A few small chips are present on the underside of the handle at the narrow end—these are not visible from above and do not affect the integrity of the piece. Suspension ring is firmly affixed and secure. Silver-plated collar displays some residual tarnish but retains a bright finish and responds well to gentle polishing. Steel worm is straight and securely seated in the handle, with no signs of distortion or repair. The end of the spike appears to have broken at some point and has been cleanly filed—visible but not visually distracting, and still consistent with the tool’s utilitarian function. Corkscrew has been lightly cleaned, waxed, and polished, and is ready for display or gentle use. See photos for more detail and DM the shop with any questions. Other items in photos not included.

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 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.