The Sportsman's Pathfinder Silver Butt Marker Box, 1899

This rare silver shooting butt marker case was known as "The Sportsman's Pathfinder" and both patented and retailed by Albert Baker Limited of London.

The hinged box has eight numbered silver pegs to the inside that fan out upon opening by way of the ingenious central hinge. The numbers would have been hidden when the pegs were offered to the marksmen as shooting positions were allotted for game bird driving. The box takes the form of a hinged purse of the period with clasp to open and close.

This Victorian silver case bears London hallmarks for 1899 and the JMB makers mark of John Millward Banks. The side of the box is engraved with "The Sportsman's Pathfinder" and "Albert Baker Ld London Pat. 22108".It is in fine condition with some gentle rubbing to the gilding where the pegs have touched the sides of the box.