Vintage Silver-Tone Mouse Brooch

This is a vintage silver-tone metal brooch designed in the whimsical silhouette of a mouse. The piece measures approximately 1.5 inches in length as shown against the ruler. It features a stylized, modernist construction with a solid, rounded head, large circular ears, and an open-work body formed by flowing, curved wire-like lines that terminate in an upturned tail. The eye is indicated by a circular cutout. The metal appears to be a plated base metal, possibly brass or copper, as there is significant finish loss and wear. The silver plating is worn away in several areas, particularly on the lower edge and the ears, revealing a warmer, reddish-bronze colored metal underneath. The surface also exhibits numerous fine scratches, pitting, and oxidation consistent with age and frequent use. On the reverse, a standard pin stem with a safety C-clasp is integrated into the frame. While no maker's mark is visible in the provided orientation, the style is characteristic of mid-20th-century costume jewelry, likely dating from the 1950s to 1970s. The craftsmanship is of moderate quality, designed for bulk retail distribution, but the unique anthropomorphic design gives it specific vintage appeal.

I have virtually examined this vintage silver-tone mouse brooch, which measures approximately 1.5 inches. My assessment finds the piece to be in 'Fair' to 'Good' vintage condition. The most significant factor impacting value is the extensive finish loss; the silver plating has worn away on the ears and lower body, exposing the base metal (likely brass or copper). The modernist, open-work wire design is charming, yet characteristic of mass-produced costume jewelry from the mid-20th century (1950s-1970s). The C-clasp mechanism appears functional, though there is visible oxidation and surface scratching throughout. From a market perspective, demand for non-designer, unsigned costume jewelry is currently soft, driven primarily by 'whimsy' collectors rather than high-end investors. Comparables for pieces of this quality and condition typically sell in small-lot auctions or through secondary vintage markets for under $20. The lack of a maker's mark (such as Trifari or Coro) limits its ceiling. Please note: This appraisal is based solely on digital images. Without an in-person examination, I cannot definitively determine the base metal via acid testing or check for micro-stamps that might be hidden under oxidation. A physical inspection would be required to verify the pin's tension and to rule out structural repairs. This valuation assumes the piece is non-precious metal and lacks premium branding. Provenance documentation or a confirmed designer attribution would be needed to justify a higher valuation.