Expert: Barbara K. Acchino - 9/15/2010

Question
I have two old thimbles that were my grandmothers  (I think, it may be older then that.)  One is a gray.  Tarnished metal type of gray but not pewter.  Inside it is faintly goldish.  There is a seam along one side.  The bottom half is covered with leaves and twisting vines, and then there is a large fairy that covers the height of the thimble.  The upper half where the fairy is not has a raised grid.  There seems to be a ridge around the top but it is worn down.  There are dimples three rows on the very top, again worn.  In the center of the top is what looks to be a six pointed star.  It is hard to see because it is dented from use in the center.
Any Idea what it might be worth?

Also there is a silver colored thimble with blue on the bottom and the words Purity Nut Margarin with a star on the end.
Any clue on these?
Thank you for your time to respond.

Answer
Hello Leigh.  I would need to see good digital pictures to tell you anything about the first thimble.  From your description of the second thimble, it sounds like it might be an aluminum advertising thimble.  If the Purity thimble is in mint condition (not out of shape, no scratches to the painted band, no holes, dents, dings, etc.) it is probably worth about $8.  If you can send pictures of the other thimble, please do:  bacchino@twcny.rr.com  Barbara