WHN Sterling Maker's Mark Help?

jazlan · Post by **jazlan** » Thu Dec 08, 2005 8:15 pm

We have come across a strange object. We can't identify the maker, or exactly what it might be. Part of it looks to be some kind of cutting tool, but it is too small for a cigar, or even a cigarette. The other part seems to be a lamp of some kind. It is marked 213 Sterling WHN. Any ideas?

dmay · Post by **dmay** » Fri Dec 09, 2005 12:54 pm

Are you sure it's too small for a cigar cutter? Just looking at it, I was wondering whether one would put the cigar end on the horn, cut it and then light it with the lamp. A fascinating piece in any event!

outwest · Post by **outwest** » Fri Dec 09, 2005 9:17 pm

Nice pictures. How big is it and what kind of tooth is that?

jazlan · Post by **jazlan** » Mon Dec 12, 2005 12:26 pm

It measures 8.5" long, 2.25" wide, and 3" tall. The part that looks like a cigar cutter is only 1/4" in diameter--are there cigars that small? The bone/tooth part seems to be a horn or a tusk. I don't know what animal it's from. Also, the lamp part moves around like a nautical barometer or clock would, with movement to keep it upright, which makes me wonder if it was made to be on a boat.

Post by **admin** » Mon Dec 12, 2005 12:38 pm

The mark is for William W. Hayden Co. of Newark, NJ ca. 1900-1910.
The object is definitely a table cigar lighter and cigar cutter.
Older cigars tended to come to a fine tapered point, so the small hole in the cutter is common for the time period.
The burner is mounted on gimbals so that oil stayed relatively level while passing the piece or raising it to take a light.
The tooth is probably a boar's tusk.
Originally, it would have had a little bell shaped cap to cover the wick, when not in use, to prevent fuel evaporation, it would have been attached to the piece by a chain.
Regards, Tom

jazlan · Post by **jazlan** » Mon Dec 12, 2005 12:53 pm

Thank you so much for your help! I am really excited, now. Thanks again. :)