ANTIQUE SILVER FLASKS
Antique Silver flasks Description:
A whisky or hip flask is a receptacle for holding whisky and other spirits, which can be carried in a pocket.
Antique Silver flasks History:
Hip flasks in silver have been made since the 18th century and they are still being made today, although it is now very rare to find any with a hallmark before 1800.
Antique Silver flasks Design:
Whiskey flasks were designed to be carried in a coat pocket and to be held in one hand. Most have a bayonet fit lid that is also hinged to the body. Some have screw tops with security chains. Many have a separate pull-off cup so that the spirit could be shared around. They were often curved in cross-section to fit round the belly. They were made in many sizes ranging from a quart down to one fluid ounce. The majority are plain but some Victorian ones have stylised engraving. Novelty hip flasks include those designed to look like books, horseshoes, animal heads etc.
Antique Silver flasks Collectors Note:
The level of craftsmanship and their aesthetic qualities determine the value of a hip flask. Unusual designs command the highest prices. But they must also be undamaged with good clear hallmarks and crisp detail. They should be fully hallmarked on the body, and other parts should bear some marks to correspond with the main mark. Look closely for damage on the body and any areas that have had crests or monograms added and then removed.