This antique sterling silver bangle, comprising a set of three hinged bangles joined together, beautifully incorporates two historically significant "love token" coin pendants, showcasing a rich blend of craftsmanship and sentimentality.
This antique sterling silver bangle, comprising a set of three hinged bangles joined together, beautifully incorporates two historically significant "love token" coin pendants, showcasing a rich blend of craftsmanship and sentimentality.
This antique sterling silver bangle, comprising a set of three hinged bangles joined together, beautifully incorporates two historically significant "love token" coin pendants, showcasing a rich blend of craftsmanship and sentimentality.
The bangle is crafted in sterling silver, with the trio of bands interlocked to create a unified yet fluid structure. Hanging from this assembly are two love token coin pendants.
The first coin has been meticulously smoothed on one side, erasing its original design, and is engraved with the name "Chippy" in a graceful script. This personalization suggests it was made as a sentimental keepsake, possibly a gift from or to someone cherished.
The second coin is a 1912 silver threepence. This piece has been enhanced with a carnelian cabochon set in a gypsy-style mount. The use of carnelian, historically associated with courage, vitality, and protection, adds both aesthetic and symbolic value.
The pendants’ connection to the bangle transforms it into a wearable testament to affection and memory, aligning perfectly with the Victorian and Edwardian traditions of sentimental jewelry.
The practice of altering coins into love tokens is steeped in history, with its peak in the 18th and 19th centuries. This tradition was deeply personal, allowing individuals to imbue otherwise ordinary objects with sentimental significance. Coins were often smoothed and engraved with names, dates, or meaningful symbols such as hearts, flowers, or even poetry. Sometimes, gemstones were added, enhancing their uniqueness.
Measurements :The bangles with a inner circumference of 20.5cm and diameter ( left to right ) of 6.4cm.Each bangle measures 2.10mm wide.The larger engraved "chippy" coin measures 2cm in diameter.Total weight of 18.4grams.