Wood & Hughes Coin Silver Figural Napkin Ring, New York City, c. 1873

An amazing piece of silver, this napkin ring is interesting from many various 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 has to 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 with the coin standard of '900/1000'. It measures 2.75 inches high, weighs 2.25 troy ounces and is in very good antique condition.