ANTIQUE AND COLLECTIBLE SILVER COMPACTS:
A Guide to Researching Their History and Value

Antique and collectible silver compacts are beautiful and functional pieces of history that can be a valuable addition to any collection. These compacts come in a variety of styles and designs, and each one tells a unique story about its origins and purpose. If you are interested in collecting antique and collectible silver compacts, it is essential to understand their history, value, and how to research them. In this guide, we will explore the fascinating world of antique and collectible silver compacts and provide you with the tools you need to begin your research.

History of Antique and Collectible Silver Compacts

Antique and collectible silver compacts have a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. These compacts were designed to hold face powder and often included a small mirror for touch-ups throughout the day. The first silver compacts were simple in design, made of silver or silver-plated metal, and often decorated with enamel or other precious materials.

In the 1920s and 1930s, silver compacts became more ornate and included intricate designs and decorations, such as Art Deco patterns, floral motifs, and even figural shapes. These compacts were often made by well-known jewelry makers, such as Tiffany & Co. and Cartier, and were highly sought after by women who wanted to stay fashionable while on the go.

During World War II, the production of silver compacts declined, as silver was needed for the war effort. After the war, production resumed, and silver compacts became popular once again. However, by the 1960s, the popularity of silver compacts began to wane, as women began to favor larger cosmetic cases and bags.

Value of Antique and Collectible Silver Compacts

The value of antique and collectible silver compacts can vary greatly depending on a variety of factors. Some of the most important factors that influence the value of silver compacts include:

• Age
• Condition
• Maker
• Rarity
• Design

Generally, the older and rarer the silver compact is, the more valuable it will be. Compacts that are in excellent condition and have a unique or unusual design are also highly sought after by collectors. The maker of the compact can also greatly influence its value, with compacts made by well-known jewelry makers being more valuable than those made by lesser-known makers.

How to Research Antique and Collectible Silver Compacts

Researching antique and collectible silver compacts can be a fun and rewarding experience, and there are many resources available to help you learn more about these fascinating pieces of history. Here are some tips to help you get started:

• Visit Antique Stores: One of the best ways to research antique and collectible silver compacts is to visit antique stores and speak with dealers who specialize in these items. These dealers can provide you with valuable information about the history and value of the compacts, as well as help you identify different makers and designs.
• Join a Collector's Group: Another great way to learn more about antique and collectible silver compacts is to join a collector's group or organization. These groups often have regular meetings and events where members can share their knowledge and expertise, as well as buy, sell, and trade compacts.
• Read Books and Articles: There are many books and articles available that cover the history and value of antique and collectible silver compacts. These resources can provide you with a wealth of information about different makers, designs, and historical periods, as well as tips on how to identify and evaluate compacts. Some popular books on the subject include "Antique & Collectible Silver-Plated Compacts" by Laura Mueller and "Art Deco Vanity Cases" by Lynne MacLachlan.
• Research Online: The internet is a vast resource for researching antique and collectible silver compacts. There are many websites and online marketplaces that specialize in these items, and you can often find information about different makers and designs, as well as pricing information and historical context. Some popular websites for researching silver compacts include Ruby Lane, Etsy, and eBay.
• Consult with Appraisers: If you have a particularly valuable antique or collectible silver compact, you may want to consult with an appraiser to determine its worth. Appraisers are trained to evaluate and authenticate different types of antiques, and can provide you with an estimate of the value of your compact based on its condition, maker, rarity, and other factors.

Conclusion

Antique and collectible silver compacts are beautiful and functional pieces of history that can provide insight into the fashion, design, and social norms of different historical periods. Whether you are a collector or just a lover of vintage items, researching silver compacts can be a fascinating and rewarding experience. By understanding the history and value of these items, as well as how to research and evaluate them, you can build a valuable and meaningful collection that will be treasured for years to come.

Unlock the true value of your collection with our comprehensive research guides from identifying makers' marks to appraising all kinds of antiques and collectibles, including items featured in this article.

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In addition to some examples shown below on this page, you can also search our price guide for your own treasures.