Tiffany & Co Waldorf Astoria American Uss Maine Antique Bronze Letter Opener

Details

Description

A rare and historical antique Tiffany & Co. bronze letter opener, issued in limited numbers on December 21st, 1912 at … Read more A rare and historical antique Tiffany & Co. bronze letter opener, issued in limited numbers on December 21st, 1912 at a dinner gala /fundraising event for the Maine held at the world the famous Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City.

The letter opener was designed for commemorating the U.S.S. Maine. The Maine was a United States Navy battleship that sank in Havana Harbor on February 15, 1898, contributing to the outbreak of the Spanish–American War. The ship was eventually raised, patched, floated out to sea and ceremoniously scuttled at sea in 1912.

Relief work depicts the ship on one side, and a quote on the other side that reads: "THE VOICE THAT RAISED THE MAINE - Let us enact this law, let us raise The Maine, Let the truth be known to all the world, I am not afraid of the truth, No true American is afraid of the truth. William Sulzer in Congress, Feb 16, 1909," as well as "Waldorf Astoria" at the base of the handle, the top of the blade signed "Tiffany & Co, Bronze"

Dimensions: (approx)
7.875" Long, 1" Wide,
Weight: 4oz.

Overall in very good original antique condition with beautifully aged warm original patina. Wear consistent with age and indicative of use, handling and exposure, including patinated bronze with scattered oxidation, tarnish and buildup, nothing that detracts from the display or functionality but only adds to the sophisticated antique character, overall authenticity, and rich historical depth that can only be acquired over long periods of time See less