Expert: Barbara K. Acchino - 6/29/2006

Question
When my grandmother died, she left me five antique thimbles, one I believe is gold and I believe the other 4 are silver. The gold one is my grandmother's, approximately 100 years old and with a pretty fleur de lis around the bottom of is.  The other four silver thimbles, two very plain with a simple pattern around the bottom, one is enscribed with my great-grandmother's initials on it surrounded by cherubs and flowers, one has my great-grandmother's first name with swags of zig-zags surrounding them.  Can you help me find out more about them, history and value?  

Answer
Hello Jennifer.  Are you able to send me digital pictures of the thimbles?  If so, send them to bacchino@twcny.rr.com.  It is next to impossible to tell you anything without seeing pictures.  There are a number of books out on the subject of thimble collectiong and there are groups in just about every state that might be able to help you too.  Check out www.thimblecollectors.com and look for a state group near you.  You should also search on ebay for something similar to what you have.  Not all ebay thimble sellers have accurate descriptions, but the photos would be a starting point for you. Good luck - Barb