1847 Coin Silver Castle Top Card Case By Leonard & Wilson Philadelphia
Description: Antique 1847 Coin Silver Castle Top Card Case from Philadelphia Pennsylvania, USA. This castle top card case has Maker's Mark for Leonard & Wilson, most famous silversmith of the time in Philadelphia. The piece has, on one side, a very highly raised design of a castle's tower with a flag having stars flaying above. There are mountains, a bridge and trees all within the scene which at its base stands about 1/8" above the base of the box. There is water and a sail boat below the bridge. The other side shows a castle or tower in the distance over a hill with a bridge and trees surrounding it. There is water under the bridge and the design is also rather high and stands about 1/16" above the surface of the box. The designs have great details and are very well done. The design continues into the hinged lid with no interruption and is almost seamless. Just a wonderful piece of American Coin Silver like nothing else. We are not familiar with the castles depicted on the box, but they are really beautiful. We feel that the flag over the castle on the first side is a representation of the American Flag because of the stars it displays. The sides of the piece are plain without decoration. Just a great and wonderful antique that very seldom comes by. Look at the details of the design and how every inch has details to be discovered and appreciated. Please view photos as they are part and parcel of our description.
Date: 1847.
Origin: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA. Was purchased from an estate of a Gentleman who collected silver items and really had some of the best silver items one can see.
Size: Measures ~2 1/2" by ~3 1/2" and is 5/16" deep. The piece weighs about 53 grams or about 1.7 troy ounces.
Maker: Leonard & Wilson.
Marks: Marked the letters L&W on the inside edge where the lid closes.
Distinguishing Characteristics - Most Interesting About The Piece: A beautiful rare antique made by a team of the most famous silversmith of Philadelphia Pennsylvania, which would make a great addition to any collection.
Condition: The card case is in excellent condition with no dings, breaks, or repairs. The design is fresh and beautiful. The hinge works well and the lid fits the way it should. You can tell it was cherished by its owners over the years and was kept in great condition. The piece could probably use a good cleaning, which we leave to the new owner. We like the way it looks with the patina, but you decide once you own it. Be that as it may this is a great antique which very seldom comes by in such a good shape. Please see photos for additional condition information.
