Expert: Barbara K. Acchino - 2/5/2010

Question
hi i wonder if you could help me , i have recently aquired a silver thimble which is presented in a walnut that pulls apart to open it , the walnut is velvet lined . I have done a little bit of research myself and i have concluded that it was made in chester , possibly by charles horner ( its hard to say as the makers mark is a bit hard to see ), it has the standard mark , and the date letter E which i think is 1888 but i could be wrong ! really i would just like to know if it is of any value ? and maybe a little more info on its history .  many thanks for your time .     

jamie

Answer
Hello Jamie.  I would need to see pictures of both the thimble case and the thimble along with whatever marks you find.  If Charles Horner made your thimble, it will be marked with his initials of CH.  There is a book out on him and the items he made.  Yes, letter marks on thimbles are very difficult to read.  Add to that the fact that Es were used many different time with just slight changes in the way they are displayed, so it can be very confusing as to which year the E designates.  If you thimble is sterling and in very good shape (no holes, not out of round, etc.) you can expect to have a value of $30 and up depending on the pattern on the band, etc.  If you can send pictures to me at bacchino@twcny.rr.com or through this forum, I'll see if I can help you any better.  Barb