Vintage 1890s Silver Plate Monkey Smoking Pipe Match Holder Vesta Case

Description

A British seller of this same silver plate monkey smoking a pipe match holder thinks he dates to 1890 although the person who sold it to me said the monkey is even older. A bit over 2 ¾ inches tall and 1 ¼ inches in depth and 7/8
th
inches wide, he weighs 1.2 ounces. The silver plate is intact on one side and on his back, but on his right side, there looks to be brass peeking through although I don’t see brass on his inside.  Just push the button under the bowl of the pipe and the lid, which happens to be the base here on which he sits, pops open.  He came with two tall wood matches.  You must push the button also when closing the “lid”.  A tension bar is present which holds the lid open and there is a good striker under the lid which was not used much    I think he is fabulous.  He is in close to excellent condition.
Postage should cost around depending on where he is going.  I do not charge for packing and handling.  Thank you for your interest and your bid.