07/09/2026
Now available this antique early Victorian sterling silver combination vesta case and cheroot or cigar cutter with piercer, fully hallmarked for Thomas Diller, London, 1850.
For more details - https://ebay.co.uk/itm/206522963454
The stylish box with all over engine turned decoration has a double hinged lid, one opening to reveal a s***f compartment, the other revealing a match striker and compartment for storing matches. This smaller lid also incorporates a cheroot cutter to the side. This finely crafted box also retains the original cigar piercer in the base.
The engine turned decoration is crisp and clear throughout, with the circular cartouche to the top engraved with the crest and name of 'Edward A. Breedon RHS'.
Background:
The Breedon family of Berkshire owned the estate of Bere Court in the village of Pangbourne. The family rose to prominence when John Breedon, a wealthy London tradesman and High Sheriff of Berkshire, purchased Bere Court in 1671. For the next two centuries, the Breedons produced sheriffs, Members of Parliament, and rectors for the parish and surrounding area. The estate eventually passed to Edward Augustus Breedon (c.1820-1877) in 1843.
The case is hallmarked as follows:
Date letter: (P) for 1850
Assay office: London
Maker's mark: TD for Thomas Diller
Silver grade: Lion passant mark for 925/1000 sterling silver.
Also stamped with young Victoria head indicating duty paid.
