This antique Victorian sterling silver vesta case has a plain rectangular rounded form.

The anterior surface is embellished with a central enamel design depicting British Navy Code of Signal flags: "Blue Ball" - a white flag with a blue centre, a red flag with a yellow St George"s Cross and a blue field with a central horizontal white stripe.

These flags represent the individual letters "S", "R" and "J"; their combined definition is untraced.

The posterior surface of this antique vesta case is plain and unembellished.

This fine silver flag vesta case is fitted with a ring loop attachment to one side and has a hinged cover which incorporates a plain thumbpiece.

There is an integrated serrated panel/match striker to the underside.

This antique silver flag vesta case is an exceptional gauge of silver, exceptional quality and in exceptional presentation condition.

The enamel is in perfect condition.

Full hallmarks struck to the surface of the sleeve and part hallmarks to the surface of the cover are all very clear; the hallmarks are struck deeply due to the exceptional gauge of silver.

Reflections in photographs may detract from the true representation of this Victorian silverware.

Length 8cm/3.1"

Width 4.1cm/1.6"

Depth 1cm/0.4"

1.4 troy ounces/44.8g

Date: 1900

Origin: London, England

Maker: Joseph Walton