Vintage 14K Yellow Gold Brushed Finish Cigarette Case / Business Card Holder
Cigarette Case / Business Card Holder / Luxury Accessory · Yellow gold with a warm, desaturated hue typical of a 14K silver-heavy alloy mix.
Purity: 14K (58.5% pure gold). This 14-karat alloy is standard for high-end accessories due to the durability provided by the silver and copper alloys, necessary for larger surface areas prone to handling.
Type
Cigarette Case / Business Card Holder / Luxury Accessory
Purity
14K (58.5% pure gold). This 14-karat alloy is standard for high-end accessories due to the durability provided by the silver and copper alloys, necessary for larger surface areas prone to handling.
Gold Type
Yellow gold with a warm, desaturated hue typical of a 14K silver-heavy alloy mix.
Weight
120 - 180 grams. Given the large surface area and structural wall thickness required for a rigid case, this represents a significant bullion value.
Description
An elegant, masculine luxury accessory crafted in solid 14K gold. This rectangular case features a sophisticated play of light, utilizing a recessed central panel with a fine grain brushed finish framed by lustrous, high-polished rounded edges. The piece serves as a timeless statement of wealth and refinement, once used for premium cigarettes and today highly sought after as a luxury business card holder.
Key Features
Contrasting textural finishes, precision-milled stepped interior border, rounded ergonomic edges, and substantial hand-weight.
Color & Finish
Pale yellow gold with a horizontal brushed (satin) finish on the central recessed panel and a high-polish finish on the rounded outer perimeter shoulders.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in this view. Typically located on the interior lip or hinge mechanism, often featuring '14K' or '585' alongside a maker's mark and possibly a patent or city assay mark.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 3.5 inches by 2.25 inches with a thickness of 0.4 inches. Sized for standard cigarettes or modern business cards.
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible. The design relies on the contrast between textural metal finishes rather than stone settings.
Clasp & Closure
Concealed push-button or thumb-slide release. The precise fitment of the lid indicates a precision-engineered tension clasp.
Chain & Links
N/A - Rigid case construction with a reinforced long-axis hinge.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality machine-assisted design with hand-finished surfaces. The transition between the polished shoulder and the recessed satin panel shows exceptional precision work.
Authentication Indicators
The uniform color and lack of 'brassing' or base metal exposure at the edges suggest solid gold rather than plating. Heavy oxidation spots consistent with a 14K alloy are present.
Origin & Maker
Likely American or European (Italian/French). The design language is consistent with prestige makers such as Cartier, Tiffany, or Dunhill, though no brand mark is currently visible.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1950s-1960s). The clean geometric lines and use of contrasting satin/polished finishes are indicative of post-war luxury design.
Age Estimate
Circa 1955-1965 based on the brushed finishing technique and the streamlined, rectangular silhouette.
Cultural Significance
Represents the height of tobacco culture and gentlemanly refinement in the mid-20th century; now repurposed by collectors as a functional high-end accessory for networking.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. Minor surface spotting and handling marks are visible on the brushed panel. No significant dents or warping seen on the main face.
Value Estimate
Primarily valued for its gold content plus a 20-40% premium for craftsmanship. Estimated $6,000 - $9,000 depending on final weight and brand identification.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid abrasive cleaners which will ruin the brushed texture. Use a soft micro-fiber cloth. Professional ultrasonic cleaning should only be done if the hinge and spring are assessed for integrity.
Similar Items
18K Gold Engine-Turned Cases (usually feature more intricate patterns like barleycorn), Silver-Gilt cases (lighter and prone to tarnish), and gold-filled Dunhill cases.
Interesting Facts
In the mid-20th century, gold cigarette cases were the ultimate status symbol in social clubs and boardroom meetings, often gifted to executives to celebrate decades of service.