Wood and Hughes Antique Coin Silver Figural Napkin Ring, NYC, NY, c. 1873

A fantastic piece of silver, this napkin ring is interesting from many different aspects. On one level, it is an exceptional work of art with an amazing cast bust of a woman with flowing hair against a stippled background and beaded framework. On another level, the rather revealing portrait must have been quite the subject of conversation at dinner (or at least garnered a few snickers). The geometrically shaped back is engraved ‘C.R. Wick/ from Laura/ Dec. 25 1873.’

One must wonder if the portrait figure is actually Laura or whether she had a great sense of humor to give such a risqué napkin ring to C.R. Wick to use at the dinner table. Either way, it certainly must have made an impression!

This rare coin silver napkin ring is marked with Wood & Hughes’ ‘W3H’ mark and the coin standard of ‘900/1000’. It measures 2.75 inches high, weighs 2.25 troy ounces, and is in very good antique condition.