Rare, silver scallop shell shaped coin purse or pill box by Leuchars and Son London.  This piece has hallmarks on the front and back of the shell and is stamped Leuchars & Son London & Paris inside under the clasp.  Inside are three fitted blue satin pockets for coins or pills.  Wonderful original condition and patina with no flaws or damage. 

Leuchars was a renowned maker of dressing cases and other luxury silver items.  The firm was established in 1794 by James Leuchars in Piccadilly, London.  James died in 1822 ,and the business was taken over by his widow Lucy under the name L. Leuchars & Sons. He son William, a skilled silversmith, took over the business in 1847 after Lucy’s death.  In 1867 William Leuchars opened a shop in Paris under the name of Leuchars & Son.