This cigarette case was my grandfathers in Northern Germany while I lived there in the early 50's. I was led to believe that it was pre-war. In examining the marks, which are tinier than most silver marks I have seen, it appears that they were both the victim of either a double strike or that it was made too close to the edge and moved while being struck.
There is a small mark on the opposite edge which reads 935. I have seen few pieces which are 935.
It appears to stump a few people. Examining the marks again under a good light, i keep thinking they are similar and could be swans. Were there any swans used in Hallmarks? Would it be possible that these are not marks but other damage. Could a piece like this have the 935 stamp and not have any other marks. I wonder if it's not even German?
Hi,
It does resemble the Zwickau mark, but the piece would date to the early part of the 20th century, many decades after the German town marks were retired.
Most likely it is a the French re-mark stamped on silver goods of unknown origin when they enter the second-hand market. The left hand mark looks as if it might be stamped on top of a Dutch sword mark, but can't really tell.
Regards, Tom