A beautifully weighted Edwardian sterling silver vesta case, hallmarked Birmingham 1912, with crisp vertical engine-turn engraving and a deeply evocative personal inscription.
Engraved “1889 AF 1914”, this piece carries the quiet gravity of a life cut short, almost certainly marking the loss of a young man at the outbreak of the First World War.
Crafted by William Hair Haseler, one of Birmingham’s most respected silversmiths, and the manufacturer behind pieces designed by Archibald Knox for Liberty & Co., this is a vesta with both artistic and historical resonance.
The form is classic yet refined: softly rounded with elegant vertical striping, a subtle architectural touch, and a clean circular cartouche framing the engraving. In the hand, it has a satisfying, considered weight. The spring-loaded lid closes with a precise snap, and the striker remains crisply defined.
Alongside the full set of British hallmarks, the case also bears a small secondary stamp, appearing as a cross within a circular punch, likely a workshop or maker’s mark applied during production. An intriguing and uncommon detail that speaks to the hand-finished nature of Birmingham silver of this period.
A substantial suspension ring allows it to be worn effortlessly as a pendant, an especially compelling way to carry such a personal object close.
Vesta cases were once refined everyday accessories, designed to safely store matches before the widespread adoption of lighters in the early 20th century. Today, they offer something far more poetic—small, intimate vessels of memory.
This example lends itself beautifully to modern wear: a discreet compartment for a keepsake, a folded note, or simply worn as a conversation piece with real emotional depth. Chain not included.
THE DETAILS
MAKER: William Hair Haseler (W.H.H)
ORIGIN: Birmingham, England
DATE: 1912 (date letter “n”)
MATERIAL: Sterling silver
HALLMARKS: Full set to inner rim – maker’s mark, anchor (Birmingham), lion passant, date letter “n”
ADDITIONAL MARK: Small cross-in-circle workshop stamp
MEASUREMENTS: 4.5 cm (1¾ inches) tall, 3.4 cm wide (1¼ inches)
WEIGHT: 18.6 grams
CONDITION: Very good antique condition. Light surface wear consistent with age and use. The lid is close fitting and shuts with a secure snap. Striker remains well defined.
A striking and deeply personal Edwardian piece, beautifully made, quietly poignant, and effortlessly wearable.
At Mercy Madge, we specialise in quality antique and vintage jewellery, carefully sourced throughout Great Britain. Every piece is professionally cleaned and polished, ensuring it is ready to wear, enjoy, or present as a thoughtful gift.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
* Free Worldwide Shipping
We are pleased to offer complimentary worldwide shipping on all purchases.
* Returns Policy
If for any reason you are not completely satisfied, you may return your item for a refund. Please contact us within 3 days of receiving your order and return the item within 7 days.
* Gemstone Testing & Measurements
All gemstones have been tested and verified using a Presidium Gemstone Tester. Please note that all measurements and stated carat weights are approximate.
* Photography & Scale
Our photographs are taken in extreme close-up to show every fine detail. As a result, minor imperfections may appear more pronounced in images than they do to the naked eye. Close-up photography can also make pieces appear larger on screen, so we recommend referring carefully to the written description for precise dimensions.
* Gifting
Purchasing as a gift? Your jewellery will arrive beautifully gift wrapped in a custom Mercy Madge jewellery box. Please note that unless otherwise stated, any antique boxes shown in photographs are for display purposes only and are not included in the sale.
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