Wood & Hughes Twist Coin Silver Master Butter Knife

An early Wood & Hughes piece, dating circa 1855, this coin silver master butter knife is substantially sized at 7 3/4" long and weighing 1.1 T. oz. It is a singular design, having a twisted stem and a notched, shield shaped handle. It is similar in overall form to Gorham's little known "Imperial" pattern of the same period, and of which Wood & Hughes had an almost identical match. The upper edge of the blade has two notches that repeat the design of the handle. Otherwise having a plain surface, it is engraved "Katie." in script. It is in very good condition. There are no bends, and apart from surface scratches consistent with age, there are no signs of wear. It is stamped with Wood and Hughes' early "WwH" mark.