19th century silver thimble with initials AT
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
19th century A.D.
This 19th-century silver thimble is a functional sewing implement designed to protect the finger during needlework. The piece features a traditional truncated conical form, characterized by a surface covered in regularly placed dimples, which are essential for gripping the needle securely while preventing it from slipping.
The construction includes distinct horizontal banding near the base, which provides both structural integrity and decorative contrast to the dimpled upper body. A significant feature of this thimble is the inclusion of the engraved initials 'AT' on the smooth lower section, a common practice in the 19th century for personalizing domestic tools. The thimble measures 24 mm in height and has a weight of 5.63 grams. The combination of its functional dimpled design and the refined silver craftsmanship makes it a characteristic example of historical sewing accessories from the 1800s.
Its clean, symmetrical silhouette is typical of thimbles produced during this period for both practical utility and personal use.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Physical characteristics
- Height
- 24 mm
- Weight
- 5.63 grams
- Material
- silver
Design
- Decoration
- regularly placed dimples, horizontal banding
- Inscription
- AT
Identification
- Source note
- Described from a single auction-house listing published on Invaluable (reproduced with Invaluable's permission). Details apply to that one example; other examples of the type may differ, and the listing is supplementary evidence, not authentication.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.