Antique 19th Century Victorian Faux Tortoise Shell Etui Calling Card Case 1800's

Description

Antique Victorian Etui
Calling Card Case / Visiting Card Case ('Carte-de-Visite')
Faux Tortoise Shell with Silver Cartouche
Mid to late 19th Century - c1860-1890
Made in England
Rectangular Silver Cartouche on top end of case for engraving - No owner monogram present
Round silver release stud button/'nib' on side - press to release clasp; metal spike hasp/catch closure
Lid hinged on opposite side
Inside lined with what appears to be silver-colored paper with black dots - see photos
Size
:
Case Measures approx 3-5/8" x 2-1/8" x 1/2"
Holds cards measuring 3" x 1-1/2"
(Designed to hold calling cards of size as used in 19th Century - will not hold today's larger typical sized business cards; few old cards still present in case - see photos)
Condition
: Excellent Antique Condition; Really remarkable overall condition. Has been well-used through the years; Stored carefully, and has been allowed to 'breathe' as required for this specific type of antique Calling Card Case.  One area/spot, measuring about 1/2" x 3/8", on back of exterior of case, appears to have something stuck on it - looks & feels slightly raised - see photos # 2, & 12; maybe something spilled on it, then became dried on - this spot may release if moistened, but unknown - *No attempt has been made to clean/remove it - to avoid any potential damage to tortoise shell; case has only been lightly cleaned with a soft, dry cloth - all further cleaning is left to buyer. Exterior surfaces shows multiple scratches and scuffs, as to be expected due to age & use - but no major damage seen - no holes, splits, chips or repairs. No crushed corners or edges. Silver cartouche shows natural age-related patina - cartouche has not been cleaned - again to avoid any possibility of damaging the surrounding tortoise-shell. Lid seats evenly & securely as intended; Hinge and Clasp work smoothly - open and close securely as intended; Catch closes firmly & securely with a clear, loud 'snap'. No lifting or separation at corners or edges or any joins/seams. Release button secure - no movement or wobbling. Hinge and pins all firmly in position & secure. Really remarkable overall condition.
Please see all photos in close-up - ask for more if needed - plenty available, readily provided
This is a 'Private Sale' - buyer remains anonymous to other eBay users
***Rare antique item - cannot be replaced - therefore special shipping/purchase conditions/requirements for this item - pls see below
QUESTIONS ALWAYS WELCOME - PLEASE ASK BEFORE BIDDING
****************
SHIPPING:
Will ship with tracking within two days of payment
***Rare item - cannot be replaced - therefore special shipping/purchase conditions/requirements for this item:
1: Will be shipped by USPS Priority Mail, with Full Insurance, and Signature Required on delivery
2: Shipping to
50 U.S. States only
3: Unless prior arrangements made (through eBay messaging), b
ids/purchase only accepted from buyers
with an established eBay account as follows:
a) established for a minimum of 6 months
b) with
at least 5 feedbacks, and
c) no (zero) negative feedback
RETURN POLICY: All sales are final.
Returns not accepted
unless a mistake is made with the listing.  Please review photos carefully, including using the zoom close-up feature, and please use all information & measurements shown above.  Again, please ask questions, or request more photos as needed, prior to bidding.
INTERNATIONAL:  Sorry, s
hipping to 50 U.S. States only
Please email with any questions prior to bidding.
Thank you!