Victorian Era
By the end of the Victorian era, the
cigarette cases became more elaborate and ornate as expected from the time. As
the cases became more fashionable, they also became more decorated. First with
simple monograms, then engravings and jewels to make them really stand out.
Sterling silver became the most
popular material for cigarette cases, although many made from gold or other
precious metals were also found. Some of the cases had chains attached, much
like you see on pocket watches, to prevent them slipping out of the pocket.
Much of the overly ornate designs faded simply because comfort took on a
greater emphasis. Plus, the ease of pulling the case from the pocket and
putting it back meant ornate designs didn’t suit the job.
The Height of Production
Cigarette case production reached its
height in the 1920s or “Roaring 20s” in the United States. The cases themselves
became sleeker and more fashionable befitting the times as the Victorian era
had passed. As the economy grew, more people entered the middle class and
started to enjoy the wealth they had accumulated which included buying
cigarettes and their cases.
By the time World War II arrived, The
Great Depression had sunk the optimism of the Roaring 20’s, but it didn’t deter
cigarette smoking as nearly 75% of adults were smoking cigarettes on a regular
basis. Cigarette case purchases still increased and those who enjoyed a good
smoke highly prized them.
The Second World War
Numerous stories about how the
sterling silver cigarette cases saved lives during WWII – the case stopping or
at least slowing down a bullet. One such survivor was actor James Doohan, of
Star Trek fame, who said that his cigarette case prevented a bullet from
entering his chest.
Cigarette cases were a strong part of
pop culture, perhaps most notably featured in the James Bond films of the
1960’s. The spy would often carry a cigarette case that concealed weapons or
devices used in his trade. Perhaps the most famous example was in “The Man with
the Golden Gun” – a cigarette case became the weapon itself.