Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Cocktail Shaker Appraisal
Category: Barware
Description
The item appears to be a vintage cocktail shaker, specifically identified as a 'shaker bottle.' Based on the provided context, it is likely a sterling silver piece made by Tiffany & Co. The visible portion of the shaker has a cylindrical or slightly tapered body with a distinct, possibly fluted or ornamental, cap which a hand is shown interacting with. The material exhibits significant tarnishing, indicating its silver composition and age. The surface appears to be a dark, oxidized silver color, suggesting a lack of recent polishing and the development of a natural patina over time. It shows signs of use consistent with its age, possibly minor surface scratches or dullness beneath the tarnish. The craftsmanship, though obscured by tarnish, would typically be of high quality for a Tiffany & Co. piece, indicating solid construction and precise fitting of components. The presence of the numbers '23642' and '925' as well as the 'Tiffany and co' and 'sterling silver' text in the context suggest manufacturer's marks and silver purity (92.5% silver). The style suggests an era where such items were common, likely late 19th to early 20th century. Its overall appearance, even with the heavy tarnish, suggests a robust and functional design, indicative of its original purpose as a cocktail shaker.
Appraisal Report
Based on my examination of the provided images and details, this item appears to be an authentic Tiffany & Co. sterling silver cocktail shaker. The markings, including 'Tiffany & Co.', 'sterling silver', and the '925' purity mark, are consistent with the brand's hallmarks. The pattern number '23642' suggests a design likely from the early to mid-20th century, a highly collectible era for Tiffany holloware. The significant tarnish is a cosmetic issue common with vintage sterling and is not considered damage; in fact, it helps to confirm the silver content. The overall form appears intact without major dents or repairs visible in the images. The value of this item is driven by several factors: the prestigious Tiffany & Co. brand name, the intrinsic worth of the sterling silver, and strong decorator and collector demand for high-quality vintage barware. Similar Tiffany shakers from this period consistently command strong prices at auction and on the secondary market. Current market conditions show a robust appetite for such luxury silver pieces. However, this appraisal is limited by the inability to physically inspect the shaker. A full, in-person examination would be required to verify the hallmarks, check for any subtle repairs or monograms (which can affect value), and confirm the exact weight. Without such inspection, absolute authenticity cannot be guaranteed.
Appraisal Value
$1,200 - $1,800