This exceptional vintage Elizabeth II cast sterling silver letter opener been modelled in the form of a dagger.
The handle of the dagger is embellished with a circular boss to the centre bearing the applied and chased decorated royal initials 'EIIR' - Elizabeth II Regina* and is surmounted to the terminal with the Royal Crown*.
The cross pattée style handle is embellished to one side with the national flowers of the United Kingdom: the rose (England), the daffodil (Wales), the thistle (Scotland) and the shamrock (Northern Ireland).
The opposing side of the handle bears four animals pertaining to the main colonies of the Commonwealth: the beaver (Canada), the kangaroo (Australia), the springbok/antelope (South Africa and a kiwi (New Zealand).
The tapering blade of the letter opener is plain and unembellished, apart from the full hallmarks.
This exceptional letter opener is fitted to the original hinged leatherette presentation box, with a satin and velvet lined interior.
The interior of the cover bears a panel denoting 'Coronation, Elizabeth R, 1953' with the Royal Crown, in addition to the retailers mark 'Ogdens & Sons Ltd, of London & Harrogate'.
NOTE: * The word 'Regina' is the Latin word for 'Queen' and the coronet to the terminal is a stylised version of the St. Edward's Crown, which is the heraldic emblem of The Queen
Date: 1953
