✅ SOLVED Silver Chatelaine or money clip??

lenmac65

Silver Member
Jul 28, 2009
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8,857
Massachusetts
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Detector(s) used
Garrett AT Pro, Equinox 800 (as of 10/2019)
Primary Interest:
Metal Detecting
I posted this object on the “Today’s Find” forum yesterday as a silver Chatelaine, which prompted some debate on its actual identity, as some have suggested it is actually a money clip. Chatelaines were popular in the late Victorian era to the 1920s or 1930s and generally attached to the women’s sash/belt to hold decorative or functional items, while money clips require no explanation. I initially thought this object was a money clip, but settled on a Chatelaine based mainly on the back, which has two clips, unlike a money clip that usually has just one. In my opinion, the larger clip would be used to attach the item to the sash/belt, while the smaller clip would be used to hold a single item or perhaps some sort of fixture to hold several items. I go back and forth on this item, as it does look similar to a money clip and could easily function as one. It was also noted that the design is unusual for a Chatelaine, as the top and bottom of the front is of the same design, and it lacks holes that are typically used to attach chains. However, I don’t know if money clips would have two clips on the back, as this one does. Also, I don’t know if Chatelaines were never symmetrical. I love the idea of this being a Chatelaine, as that is most interesting to me. However, I would not be disappointed if it is a money clip, as that is interesting too, and apparently more valuable. What do you think, a Chatelaine or a money clip? Alternatively, could it be some sort of brooch that had an extra clip for attachments? If you look at the picture of the woman below, she does seem to have something on her collar with an attachment.

I have attached several pictures of my item, a contemporary picture of a woman wearing a different styled Chatelaine, and a modern photo of an item similar to mine to illustrate the attachment. I would appreciate any comments or ideas you may have.

Thanks!

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The second clip was left "open"- not finished... as to "change out" / "switch" items intended to carry.

These were sold separately most times.

As they "built" these.

Like charm bracelet.... you start with bracelet then choose charms etc... same theory anyway.

The made them in varying sizes to accommodate various situations.

But it seems from what i have read they were also sold completed... but most people wanted to make their own and would pick the parts to be assembled by the jewelers.
 

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It has no specific designation as i just stated.

Take it for what it is.

Sounds good. Thanks for your research and comments. I feel I have a better understanding of this object through all the comments received.
 

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Sounds good. Thanks for your research and comments. I feel I have a better understanding of this object through all the comments received.

Yes... you found a Chatelaine belt clip in all probability.

I would bend down inner and use for a money clip if it were me :)
 

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I will concede this point. More likely late Victorian.

Blackinton & Co. were founded in 1862. I found a silversmithing webpage which claimed the 'B pierced with sword' mark was used until 1900. Apparently, Blackinton & Co never produced any catalogs, so dating pieces precisely is difficult.

Thanks! Very interesting and helpful info. Thanks for your time, research, and comments.
 

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Yes... you found a Chatelaine belt clip in all probability.

I would bend down inner and use for a money clip if it were me :)

I like that idea, as it would make a nice conversation piece that way too instead of being hidden away in a box somewhere.
 

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I like that idea, as it would make a nice conversation piece that way too instead of being hidden away in a box somewhere.

Yes sir.

Fancy smanchy... after all you found it... Something you can whip out during a metal detecting conversation :)
 

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After looking... i dont think you would have to depress it much if at all... try it out and see... fold some bills and try it.

20210427_071601.jpg
 

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Take a soft cloth and rub it out... should sparkle in minutes.
 

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BTW... DC Matt...

This came up when i was researching via backdoors...

And... This was the only one i could find...

Who knows... maybe Lens clip belong to THIS purse.

"Antique Sterling Silver Chatelaine Purse R. Blackinton & Co."

875359fe56fc7c4d58824223741f3be0--silver-bags-silver-purses.jpg
 

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BTW... DC Matt...

This came up when i was researching via backdoors...

And... This was the only one i could find...

Who knows... maybe Lens clip belong to THIS purse.

"Antique Sterling Silver Chatelaine Purse R. Blackinton & Co."

View attachment 1921657

Beautiful. I sure would love to find that!
 

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