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Teddy Roosevelt Sterling Match Safe

This Gorham etched and engraved match safe is #4 of 32 pieces that were made prior to the 1901 presidential inauguration on March 4th. Every safe was engraved "Vice President 1901," which is when Teddy took office as VP. The safes were most likely handed out to Roosevelt's friends and associates. On the closing rim is stamped "STERLING," Gorham's house mark, and "ALU" indicating it was a custom order. Each piece cost $3.47 to make (including 77¢ for silver) and retailed for $4.50. The cost record shows the safes were also "ox-finished," meaning a patina was applied to highlight the design. Only four are known to be in the hands of collectors. Note: Gorham didn't appear to give their better engravers this job – notice the poorly formed letters, numbers, and random star cluster. Restoration required the removal of edge dents from the upper left of the cover. The piece was gently polished with Herman's Simply Clean Collectors Silver Polish, finishing with a wax coat to retard tarnish.

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