Cartier - Money clip

Must de Cartier Money Clip – Striated Silver with Golden Details – Made in France – Serial 012282

Available for sale: a Must de Cartier money clip, crafted in silver with striated decoration and the classic gold band, part of the iconic executive luxury accessories line from the Parisian Maison.

Identification and authenticity

Brand: Cartier, Must de Cartier collection
Front inscription: must de Cartier on a golden cartouche
Individual numbering: 012282
French metal control seal engraved on the reverse
Original legend: MADE IN FRANCE
100% original piece, not a reproduction, not a modern re-edition

Materials

Body: striated silver (not polished, preserves original patina)
Decoration: double gold ring in relief center (gold/bronze gold finish)
Surface: linear geometric striation, unmistakable symbol of the Must collection
Total length: approx. 5.8 – 6.2 cm
Width: approx. 1.9 – 2.1 cm
Thickness: approx. 3–4 mm closed
Weight: approx. 27–35 g

Condition

Uniform and authentic patina
Micro-scratches typical of financial-era use; small impact (see photos)
Gold band with slight wear at edges, no total loss
Perfect striation, no dents or deformation
Press mechanism intact, functions as a clip with original tension
Not restored, non-chromed, not altered → Collectible value intact

Historical context

The Must de Cartier collection emerged in 1973 as a cultural shift by the jewelry giant toward luxury accessories that were more accessible to corporate elites, executives, and European diplomacy.

The aesthetics respond to late Art Deco reinterpretation:

- Symmetry
- Metal striation
- Silver–gold contrast
- Pure geometry