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Cigarette Cases

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Sterling Silver Cigarette Cases.

At Dart Silver Ltd we always have a wide selection of  silver cigarette cases for sale in stock.

Sterling silver cigarette cases with examples from England, Continental Europe and further afield. Dating from the Victorian, Edwardian period as well as the 20th century.

Always very popular with seasoned collectors as well as the new collector with prices to suit most budgets.

The history of sterling silver cigarette cases is closely tied to the rise of cigarette smoking and the evolving social customs around tobacco consumption.

Late 19th Century – Early 20th Century

The popularity of cigarette smoking increased in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.  This was particularly true after the invention of the safety match, making cigarettes more convenient to light.
As smoking became a common social activity, the need for stylish and practical ways to carry and protect cigarettes arose.

Functional Design

Sterling silver cases solved this problem by offering a compact and elegant container for carrying cigarettes. Designers crafted these cases with functionality in mind.  They incorporated compartments to securely hold cigarettes and sometimes including a space for matches.

Art Nouveau and Art Deco Influences

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles influenced the design these cases.
Elaborate engravings, intricate patterns, and geometric shapes characterized the aesthetics of these cases.

Personalization and Customization

Many sterling silver cigarette cases were personalized or custom-made for individuals, featuring monograms, family crests, or specific design elements requested by the owner.
Some cases even had built-in compartments for holding matches or a small lighter.

Status Symbol and Fashion Accessory

Sterling silver cases became more than just functional items; they were considered status symbols and fashionable accessories.
The possession of an ornate and well-crafted cigarette case was often seen as a reflection of one’s taste and social standing.

Mid-20th Century Designs

In the mid-20th century, designs for sterling silver cigarette cases evolved to reflect the prevailing styles of the time, including elements of Mid-Century Modern and other contemporary design movements.
Changing Social Attitudes

As societal attitudes towards smoking changed in the latter part of the 20th century, with increased awareness of health risks, the use of cigarette cases declined.

Collectability and Antiques

Today, sterling silver cigarette cases are highly collectible items. Antique dealers and collectors value them for their craftsmanship, historical significance, and as artifacts that provide insight into past social habits.
While the use of sterling silver cigarette cases has diminished with changing smoking habits, they remain cherished as both functional and artistic relics of a bygone era when cigarette smoking was not only prevalent but also considered a stylish and sophisticated social activity.

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