Edwardian silver medallion keyring with historic coin charms, hallmarked Birmingham 1906

This silver medallion is hallmarked for Birmingham 1906 and bears the maker’s mark of Thomas Fattorini, a well-established family firm active in the manufacture of medals, badges and emblematic silverwork throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries. At this date, the business was trading under the family name; the incorporation as Thomas Fattorini Ltd did not occur until 1919. The family-run business is still active today. 

The medallion itself is unengraved and shield-shaped, a common format for Edwardian silver accessories intended for later personalisation or everyday use as a watch fob or keyring. It is attached to a silver chain and brass split ring, from which hang three coins that introduce an additional layer of historical interest.

The earliest of these is a copper British half farthing, now too worn to read the date. Half farthings were produced for circulation between 1844 and 1869. By the late Victorian period they were no longer struck, but many remained in circulation or were kept as curiosities. The second coin is a United States one dime dated 1883, struck in 90% silver, as was standard for American dimes of the period. The final coin is a bronze British farthing dated 1906 and contemporary with the hallmark on the medallion.

The presence of both British and American coinage reflects the portability of currency and the way small, everyday objects were often kept as souvenirs, talismans, or reminders of travel, migration, or connection. The whole piece reflects the popularity of silver accessories in Edwardian Britain and the way personal items were adapted over time, incorporating coins of differing origins, metals and ages to create a functional and mnemonic object.

Weight: 20.8g

Measurements: 4.5" length (bottom of medallion to top of coins when outstretched), medallion is 1.6" length and 1" wide. Chain to keyring 1.6".

This is an antique item with some signs of wear but in excellent condition for its age. Please refer to photos as these form part of the description.