What is the difference between a letter opener and a page turner?

Letter openers are generally shorter implements designed specifically for slitting envelope flaps open upon delivery. Page turners measure significantly longer, featuring broader, flatter blades intended to part uncut paper pages in books. While both share sterling silver mounts and materials like tortoiseshell, their scale reflects their original desk functions.

How do I care for silver and tortoiseshell?

Keep tortoiseshell away from direct sunlight and extreme heat to prevent warping or drying out. Clean the sterling silver portions gently with a soft cloth to preserve the hallmarks without abrasive polish. Store the piece flat in a dry environment rather than upright in a crowded cup.

How can I date an unmarked handle?

Examine the silver mount for official hallmarks, which record the assay office city and a date letter corresponding to the year of manufacture. Stylistic clues such as Art Deco enamel or Victorian fern engraving also point toward specific decades. Consulting regional silversmith records helps narrow down unidentified workshop culls.

Why do some pieces feature animal figures?

Animal handles reflect the Victorian and Edwardian fascination with novelty desk accessories and sporting interests like hunting and shooting. Dogs, birds, and foxes were modelled in cast silver to add personality to daily correspondence. These whimsical designs served as conversation pieces in private studies and offices.

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Antique Sterling Paper Knife

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An antique sterling paper knife brings tactile weight to the desk, turning the simple act of opening post into a daily ritual.

Exceptionally Rare and Unusual Silver and Enamel Hunting or Shooting Interest Letter Opener or Knife by A. Barrett, Piccadilly, London, 1902

1900 - 1920

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Exceptionally Rare and Unusual Silver and Enamel Hunting or Shooting Interest Letter Opener or Knife by A. Barrett, Piccadilly, London, 1902

From Hough & Son

£500

3+ MONTHS AGO

silver

19th century

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Rare Solid Silver Victorian Jubilee Commemorative Letter Opener - 1897

From Kingsdown Antiques

£335

3+ MONTHS AGO

silver

Later than 1960

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Quality Vintage Solid / Sterling Silver Letter Opener - Pheasant

From Puckerings

£595

3+ MONTHS AGO

silver

19th century

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Victorian Silver Tortoiseshell Letter Opener Birmingham 1881

From Aramis Antiques

£195

3+ MONTHS AGO

silver

Antique English Novelty Duck Letter Opener by Sampson Mordan & Co.

1900 - 1920

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Antique English Novelty Duck Letter Opener by Sampson Mordan & Co.

From Puckerings

£495

3+ MONTHS AGO

silver

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Antique Sterling Paper Knife

Exceptionally Rare and Unusual Silver and Enamel Hunting or Shooting Interest Letter Opener or Knife by A. Barrett, Piccadilly, London, 1902

Rare Solid Silver Victorian Jubilee Commemorative Letter Opener - 1897

Quality Vintage Solid / Sterling Silver Letter Opener - Pheasant

Victorian Silver Tortoiseshell Letter Opener Birmingham 1881

Antique English Novelty Duck Letter Opener by Sampson Mordan & Co.

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