Animal Pins Appraisal

Pair of Kiwi Bird Pins/Cufflinks

This item consists of a pair of vintage or antique cufflink-style pins, shaped like very detailed kiwi birds. Each pin is crafted from a base metal, likely brass or a similar alloy, with a gold-tone finish that shows varying degrees of wear and patina, particularly on the raised areas and edges, indicating age and use. The kiwi birds are depicted in a naturalistic pose, with distinctive long beaks and rounded bodies. The texture on the birds' bodies suggests intricate feather detailing, though the exact method of creation is not discernible from the image. Each bird features a pin backing, typical of lapel pins or brooches, rather than the traditional toggles of cufflinks, suggesting they might be decorative pins designed to resemble cufflinks. The overall size appears small, consistent with accessory pins. They are presented in a light blue jewelry box with a satin or velvet-like interior, bearing the gold-embossed name "Friedman's JEWELERS" on the inside lid. While no specific maker's marks are visible on the pins themselves, the presentation in a jeweler's box suggests they were sold as a retail jewelry item. The condition appears to be good for their age, with the primary observation being typical surface wear consistent with a metallic finish that has been handled over time, resulting in some darkening or dulling of the gold tone in recessed areas and slight brightening on high points due to rubbing. The craftsmanship appears to be of decent quality, suitable for mass-produced fine costume jewelry or lower-end fine jewelry. The style points towards mid to late 20th century.