Sterling Paper Clip with just a number, help pls

[kevalie]

Hi, I come across this paper clip with just the word "Sterling" and the number "2340", can someone please tell me who the maker was and the period when it was made, thanks.

[fashion.fashoff]

the form (like a sword handle) and the uneven bottom edge remind me of some shiebler and redlich designs. the style of the stamped numerals is similar to those found on their work as well. (redlich was a former shiebler designer). it is rare but not totally unheard of for their pieces to be unsigned. perhaps you can find a signed example of this clip or another piece with the same design (i wouldn't be surprised if the maker of this piece used the same shape as a letter opener) to make a solid attribution.

regardless of maker, its design is typical c. 1890s fare.