Gorham sterling "Hands Up" ash tray?

[msicard]

Heavy, 6.5 inch ash tray. Appears hand-made, with detailed dirigible, ship and steam locomotive around rim, and masked bandit in the center over the words "Hands Up." Weighs 8+ oz. Marked Gorham - lion/anchor/G - Sterling - I D V. Much searching has revealed nothing similar. Very curious as to date and purpose of design. Any suggestions appreciated.



http://www.i-genuity.com/dropbox/100_6536.JPG

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[msicard]

For what it's worth, this is obviously a cigar ashtray, as the the rests are big enough to accomodate a stout stoogie.

[dragonflywink]

Neat piece! The three letters would indicate a special order or sample item, believe Gorham started using those codes in 1898, which would correspond to the style of the trademark. Not sure how long that coding system was in use, perhaps the fairly nice details on the locomotive, steamship and airship might give some clues to the dating.

Couple of thoughts came into my head regarding the intended recipient, perhaps there was a play or motion picture of that name with the ashtray(s) presented to producer, director, star, etc. The three modes of transportation would seem a bit odd if my first thought was the case, so maybe it had something to do with a security agency, like Pinkerton's, alluding to the protection of passengers and cargo from robbers. Just pondering, really have no idea.....

~Cheryl

[msicard]

Thanks for the ideas, D.F.

I did see one "Hands Up" piece that went unsold on eBay while I was researching before buying this, but when I went back for details, it was off the site.

I think it is or is nearly a one-off. Maybe for an exposition or special order. I suspect the answer lies in the juxtaposition of "modern" travel vs. the menace of the bandito to travelers in the past.
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MONTY

[Abbott]

The motif gives a clue as to the date of manufacture, I believe they were made in the early 1920's. I have owned and seen a number of identical pieces and pieces that were from the desk set. I can't recall at the moment but I believe there is a an older silver magazine article on the the subject of these items. It isn't one-of-a-kind but they are certainly uncommon.