Expert: Barbara K. Acchino - 8/12/2005

Question
Hi I have a thimble that is gold in color. The bottom half has flat sides on it total of 10 flat panals. One of the panal says Carrie J. Bell. Then every other pannal has designes on it from an owl to a butterfly, flowers, another type of bird, and one with a dragonfly. The other panals just have 3 small marks top center and 3 small marks in each bottom corner. There is also a sliver thimble case that is is held in that has a small flag on the bottom with the letters F&B in the flag it also says stirling. Oh and it has an 8 in one of the pannals. Can you tell me anything about this?
Elizabeth Mathews

Answer
Hello Elizabeth.  If you are able to send me a digital picture of each of these items, I may be able to tell you more (bacchino@twcny.rr.com).  For now, I'll try and tell you as much as I can from your description.  The thimble is called a "panel" thimble.  They were made in 6, 8, 10, and 12 sided designs.  The design you describe sounds to be what is referred to as "folk art".  Carrie J. Bell would have been the name of the owner.  Maker's marks should show up inside the top of the thimble or may be something like an anchor on one of the panels.  There may also be a digit in one of the panels to indicate size.  There may also be marks to show gold content....a number with a K would indicate karat, but there may also be a trefoil or double anchor marks or a capital letter A.  Each means different things.  If you can describe any other marks you find, I may be able to help you determine the maker.  As far as the case goes, it is made by Foster and Bailey of Providence Rhode Island.  They were in business 1878-1898.  They made thimbles as well as cases.  Condition of both the thimble and the case greatly affect the value, so I couldn't give you a figure without at least some pictures.  If digital pictures aren't possible, my advice would be to search on eBay for similiar items and compare them to yours.  There are numerous books out on thimbles and sewing tools.  Your local library or bookstore may have something you can flip through.  Of course, if these items have personal worth, the monetary value may not be as important.  Hope I've helped.  Barb