
Vintage Ornate Cast Brass Letter Opener
This is a vintage one-piece cast brass letter opener with an ornate, highly stylized design. The object features a blade with a curved back edge and a straight cutting edge, decorated with a repeating repoussé-style pattern of raised circles and fleurs-de-lis. The handle is exceptionally decorative, exhibiting Baroque or Rococo influence with its heavy scrollwork, acanthus leaves, and a central oval medallion encircled by a beaded border. The material is a golden-toned brass alloy showing a natural aged patina, with darker oxidation settled into the deep recesses of the decorative casting, which enhances the visual depth of the ornamentation. The construction appears to be sand-cast or die-cast in a single mold, resulting in a solid, substantial feel. There are no visible maker's marks or signatures on the upward-facing side. Condition-wise, the item shows minor surface scratches and localized tarnishing consistent with age and moderate use. The edges of the blade appear dull, as is standard for a slitter of this type. It likely dates from the mid-20th century, following traditional European decorative motifs.
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Estimated Value
$45.00 - $75.00
Basic Information
Category
Antique Desk Accessories
Appraised On
February 18, 2026
Estimated Value
$45.00 - $75.00
Item Description
This is a vintage one-piece cast brass letter opener with an ornate, highly stylized design. The object features a blade with a curved back edge and a straight cutting edge, decorated with a repeating repoussé-style pattern of raised circles and fleurs-de-lis. The handle is exceptionally decorative, exhibiting Baroque or Rococo influence with its heavy scrollwork, acanthus leaves, and a central oval medallion encircled by a beaded border. The material is a golden-toned brass alloy showing a natural aged patina, with darker oxidation settled into the deep recesses of the decorative casting, which enhances the visual depth of the ornamentation. The construction appears to be sand-cast or die-cast in a single mold, resulting in a solid, substantial feel. There are no visible maker's marks or signatures on the upward-facing side. Condition-wise, the item shows minor surface scratches and localized tarnishing consistent with age and moderate use. The edges of the blade appear dull, as is standard for a slitter of this type. It likely dates from the mid-20th century, following traditional European decorative motifs.
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