English Silver Box Help

[modemgirlz]

Could someone help me with the Maker of this box, it's marked WS. I believe, (by date letter marks on main page) this piece is 1876, if I am correct? What would someone use this box for? It measures, 3 1/4" long by 2" wide and 5/8" high. Thank you all for your help. Kristina
http://img8.picsplace.to/img8/17/marks_silver_004.jpg
http://img8.picsplace.to/img8/17/marks_silver_005.jpg
http://img8.picsplace.to/img8/17/marks__silver_006.jpg
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[Granmaa]

Kristina,

You're right, it is 1876 and assayed in London. The maker's mark looks like that of William Summers.
As for its use: perhaps a snuff box?

Miles
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[modemgirlz]

Thank you miles for your help. I thought it could be a snuff box as well, but all the ones I have seen, are smaller. Perhaps they just carried tobacco in them? Anyway, I am happy to know the maker and I was correct with the date. You are so kind! Thanks again, Kristina
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[Granmaa]

Kristina,

I'm certainly no expert on snuff boxes, but I've had a look at a few today, and it seems to me that the size steadily increased from about 2 inches at around 1800 to more the size of yours towards the end of the century.

A nice little box though; it certainly makes a break from the monotony of my spoons!

Yours,
Miles
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[modemgirlz]

Miles, ty so much for all your help, you are so right, I did some more checking and the size has increased over the years. You have been so kind to help me out as you have. I am certainly not an expert with any silver. But thanks to all the nice people here, I am learning so much. I really do appreciate all this help.
I find all this information very interesting. I just hope I am not over stepping my bounds with too many questions. Thanks again, Kristina
P.S. I am sure you have some beautiful silver spoons in your collection!
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