WORLD WAR II NAVAL INTEREST: A silver cigarette case by Pag...

Hammer

£280

WORLD WAR II NAVAL INTEREST: A silver cigarette case
by Page, Keen & Page, Birmingham 1939, inscribed 'H. West H.M.S. "Escort" from 'Athenia' survivors 4.9.39', 8.1cm x 7cm, along with a George V silver cigarette box by William Comyns & Sons Ltd, London 1945, of rectangular form with three compartment hardwood interior, inscription to cover 'Commander and Mrs. West from the Commodore and Ward Room Officers R.N. Barracks Chatham 12th October 1946', 19.2cm x 8.7cm x 5.2cm, together with a silver cigarette case and a Ronson white metal lighter, 4cm x 3.5cm (3)

This cigarette case appears to have been a gift of gratitude from the Survivors of the Athenia disaster to Commander H West of HMS Escort. Athenia was the first UK ship to be sunk by Germany during World War II after Britain declared war on Hitler on the 3rd September 1939. Just hours later, German submarine U-30 torpedoed the Athenia. Over 100 civilians lost their lives and the sinking was condemned as a war crime.
H West aboard HMS Escort rescued some 300 passengers from the sinking Athenia and it appears that this case was gifted to him as a token of gratitude.

More Information

Cigar box: Good order. Some light denting, but no splitting, thinning or signs of repair. Moderate scratching and wear to the exterior. lettering to cover is worn, but is clear and legible. Some scratching and wear to the wooden interior, but this is largely in good order. Moderate scratching and wear to the leather base.

Cigarette case: Very heavy denting. No splitting or signs of repair. Some wear to the lettering on the front, but this is still crisp and legible. Push button mechanism is working, cover opens smoothly and closes flush with a snap. Heavy pulling to the internal elastic. Moderate scratching and wear to the gilt interior.

Lighter: Currently not in working order.