Cigarette case - Silver - Silver Cigarette case

Victorian Sterling Silver Cigarette / Cigar Case – Birmingham 1884 – Jack the Ripper Interest

Victorian sterling silver cigarette/cigar case, assayed at Birmingham in 1884, by Frederick Dendy (maker’s mark FD).

Rectangular case with rounded corners and hinged lid. The interior retains bright original gilt finish. The lid is engraved:

“Dr John Ince
Anniversary of H.M.’s Commission
20th February 1885”

Dr John Ince, Surgeon Major, is associated with Jack the Ripper interest through a contemporary letter written during the period of the Whitechapel murders and read out in court at the time. The letter was written by Jack Hodson and accused Dr Ince of being responsible for the murders. This reference is included solely as a matter of historical record. No attribution or claim is implied.

Extract from the contemporary letter written by Jack Hodson:

“Sir, one thing I should like to know. Where were you when the Whitechapel murders were committed, as I have read the papers, and it is my opinion you have done them all. As they all agree that he was a doctor, that he carried a black bag, and was mad, and was a most repulsive looking party: isn’t it wonderful how exactly you answer that description? Hoping to see you soon, when I shall give you what I promised you.”

Hallmarks:
FD – Frederick Dendy
Lion passant – sterling silver
Anchor – Birmingham
Date letter r – 1884
Queen Victoria duty mark

Dimensions: approx. 13 × 10 cm
Weight: approx. 245 g

Condition:
Excellent for age. No damage or repairs. Hinge working correctly. Minimal wear. Gilding bright. Hallmarks clear.

A fine late Victorian silver case with documented historical context and collector interest.