Expert: Barbara K. Acchino - 2/26/2004

Question
I HAVE A STERLING SILVER THIMBLE, IT HAS STERLING, AND THE NUMBER 10 ON IT.  THERE IS ALSO A DESIGN ENGRAVED ON IT.

COULD YOU POSSIBLE TELL ME ANYTHING ABOUT IT!

THANK YOU!
DIONNE ROMERO

Answer
Hello Dionne.  The number 10 stamped on the band of the thimble is the size, as thimbles were made in a number of different sizes.  American thimbles use 1-14 (or higher) as smallest to largest, while English thimbles are just the opposite....the larger number is the smaller sized thimble.  Sterling means it is 925 parts out of 1000 that is pure silver...the remaining parts are other metals to help make the item stronger, as silver is soft.  Is there any maker's mark up inside the cap of the thimble?  That would help me provide more information.  There are a number of good books out on thimbles with pictures that might help you identify what you have.  Check with your local library to see what they can get for you.  Searching ebay on "silver thimble" will provide pictures and you may be able to find one like yours.  Also if you could send a good digital picture of the thimble itself, I can try and tell you more.  My email address is:  bacchino@twcny.rr.com.