Expert: Barbara K. Acchino - 1/6/2007

Question
Dear Barbara, I have an older Ketcham & McDougall sterling thimble. I have spent several hours trying to find a picture of a similar piece, but to no avail. It is stamped mKd on the inside, also it has the words "pat apld for and Sterling" around the mKd symbol, and it has a floral design that extends around the rim with a magnolia(I think)in the center. The flower extends below the rim giving it a tear drop effect. It is well used and has alot of patina, but is in very good condition. It is also a size 6.
If you'd like I can send you some pictures of it, although there not very good. Thank you in advance for any information you can provide for me on this.


Answer
Steven - you have a dropped rim thimble in the rose pattern.  The patent was applied for in 1912.  There were three dropped rim bands made by Ketcham & McDougall.  You can see a picture of your thimble in Gay Ann Rogers' American Silver Thimbles on page 76.  The price guide she published in 1989 indicate your thimble is worth between $175 and $250.  However, selling prices in recent years have far exceeded that estimate.  You have a real treasure there!  Barb