STAMP BOXES
Wednesday, 16 - Wednesday, 23 February 2022
Very Rare Sterling Silver Stamp Box “MACNEILL’S PATENT STAMP APPLICATOR,”
Current Bid $660 (5 bids, reserve not met)
This lot is now closed 23 Feb 6:02 PM (NZST)
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Lot Details
London Assay 1869 by Robert Hennell. Small square design, the sides with engraved scroll work and the top showing embossed profile of Queen Victoria and “Patent” flanking Macneill's monogram. PROVENANCE: Spink 'BLUE EYES' Collection July 2009. NOTE: The earliest silver stamp box in the Ellot Collection and pre-dates the general production of silver cases by some ten years. It is not known whether these cases were made for retail, or as a private commission for Sir John Macneill to give to friends. 21x26x7 High. NOTE: This patent mechanism consists of two sprung plates, which holds a stack of stamps against restraining flanges at the bottom, The original patent describes the applicator’s operation…“The letter is damped slightly by the tongue or otherwise; the case is then laid on the letter, and at the same time pressure of the finger is applied to the top, so as to press the follower down, and consequently the stamp, on to the part of the letter or document which has been previously damped; when this is done the pressure of the finger is removed and the case lifted up, the adhesive matter on the stamp causing it to be withdrawn from the small retaining flanges of the case, and be thus left adhering to the surface of the letter. The postage or other stamps are thus presented ready for being applied in quick succession and with great facility to any number of letters”.
