1 9

Vintage natural seashell coin purse with a gold-tone metal frame, Europe, first half of the 20th century

Vintage natural seashell coin purse with a gold-tone metal frame, Europe, first half of the 20th century

€40,00
€40,00
Sale Sold out
Taxes included. Shipping calculated at checkout.
  • Fast shipping : 🚚 24–48 business hours

Small natural seashell coin purse, made with two oval valves with a striated surface and cream, brown, and greenish tones. Both pieces are joined by a gold-tone metal frame that runs along the edge, with a hinge and clasp. When opened, it reveals the pearlescent interior of the shells. It retains its closure system, which functions correctly and keeps the purse securely closed.

This type of small seashell coin purse is associated with fancy items and travel souvenirs sold during the first half of the 20th century. Seashells were used in the manufacture of personal accessories and small decorative objects, especially linked to coastal towns and tourist destinations. Their format allowed for storing a few coins or other tiny items, combining a practical function with the ornamental appeal of natural materials. This is a typology that has continued to be manufactured since then.

  • Style: Souvenirs
  • Decoration/Motif: Marine
  • Period/Dating: First half of the 20th century, ca. 1900–1950
  • Origin: Europe
  • Materials: Natural seashell and gold-tone metal frame.
  • Dimensions: 5.4 × 3.9 cm
  • Weight: 34.30 g

These items are not new; they show signs of wear and may have scratches and imperfections consistent with their age and use. Please examine the photos carefully. We provide an accurate description; if you need to confirm a detail, write to us before purchasing.

Things you should know

What you are buying (important)

We sell antique and vintage items, not new or freshly manufactured products. Due to their age and previous use, they may show signs of wear, marks, scratches, small losses, or variations typical of the passage of time. These characteristics are common in pieces with history and are part of their condition.

We recommend that you review the photographs carefully, as they show the actual condition of the piece. If you need to confirm any details before purchasing, please write to us.

Photos and color

The photographs are taken with artificial light, so the color may vary slightly depending on your screen and lighting. If color is a deciding factor for you, we can send you additional photographs taken in natural light to get as close as possible to the true tone.

Patina and cleaning

Many pieces have a patina as a natural consequence of the passage of time. We do not remove it, as it may have taken decades to form and, in many cases, contributes to the character and appearance of the piece.

If you decide to clean or polish a piece, do so with caution and keeping the material in mind. Improper cleaning can alter its surface, patina, appearance, and in some cases, its value. If you need guidance on cleaning a specific material, contact us and we will help you.

Customer service

We are available to answer your questions and help you shop with peace of mind. Write to us if you need additional measurements, more photographs, or any clarification regarding the condition, marks, or materials.

View full details