Albert Coles "Kenilworth" Medallion Coin Silver Tea Knife
click for more pictures for item 4491f |
Taking its name from the novel by Sir Walter Scott, "Kenilworth" originated with Albert Coles in the 1860s and was later continued in production by George Shiebler.
This 7 1/2" long, 1.2 T. oz., tea aka breakfast aka dessert knife is an early solid coin silver example marked with Coles' three part "eagle," "A/C," "bust" emblem.
Classified as a "Medallion" pattern by D. Albert Soeffing in his foundational work on this design genre, he cites a May 8, 1895 article in the Jewlers' Circular and Horological Review which stated in referencing this design,
"The pattern has a beaded effect down the stem, while its main decorative feature is the girl's head in relief, with a hood at the top."
This has a fancy, feathered script "JTH" monogram engraved sideways on the handle.
A hard to find item, this is doubly elusive given its excellent condition. The figure and other pattern details remain clear and well-defined. The blade is free of bends, nicks, or tip wear, but shows light surface scratches consistent with age. The finish is bright and even.
Note: see Old Friends item 4458f for a pie server in this pattern.