Expert: Barbara K. Acchino - 10/22/2007

Question
Hi, Barbara. I inherited a small gold thimble that is inscribed Mary L. May and deep inside, has a mark that looks almost like an "8" with some print SO tiny, I can't read it. Any clue as to its value? Since we have no Mary L May in our family, it has no sentimental value, per se ... If I wanted to sell it, where would be the best online venue?

Answer
Hello Deb.  Without seeing the thimble, I can't tell you specifics.  Any way you can send me a digital picture of the thimble and the mark?  If so, my email is bacchino@twcny.rr.com.  There are Internet sites that offer makers marks on precious metals.  You might want to look up Stern Bros. Co or Goldsmith Stern or Simons Bros. Your thimble could be 10 or 14 karat gold or even gold filled...all things have a bearing on the value.  If there are holes or the thimble is not perfectly round where you place your finger, that would affect the price.  If there is a fancy pattern on the band or a plain, simple one, that would affect the price.  There are books out on thimbles that may help you identify the maker and the year produced.  If you wanted to sell the thimble, I would say the Internet (eBay, on line shops, etc.) would be the best place as it reaches the widest audience.  You might want to search eBay for gold thimbles for a few weeks to see if anything similar comes up for sale.  Sorry I can't be of more help, but without seeing the thimble, I am at a real disadvantage.  Barb