Expert: Barbara K. Acchino - 3/4/2009

Question
I recently recieved a thimble that was my great grandmothers.  It's brass with ornate scroll design around it, stamped with 2 anchors, and either a #6 or #9 on it.  Would appreciate any info on this.  Thank you. I tried to attach a picture, but it was rejected.

Answer
Hi Sindy.  From your description, I can only tell you that the double anchor mark indicates your thimble is gold filled.  The number 6 or number 9 indicates the size of the thimble.  I would need a picture to tell you anything more.  If you can send it to me at bacchino@twcny.rr.com I'll see if I can be of further help.  If you do send a picture, please also include this information:  are there any holes (hold it up to the light and look thru the opening for pin holes) are there are scratches, dings or dents, is the finger hold misshapen at all, is there any kind of mark inside the top of the thimble that would be a makers mark (if tarnished, take a pencil with an eraser on the top and rub it over the tarnished area), is there any engraved letters on the band or any pattern you can described.  All these things impact the value.  Barbara