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Antique ladies' dance purse / vanity compact by Standard Mail Order Co., New York.
This beautiful early 20th-century compact features an ornate engraved/chased floral and scroll design with a blank oval monogram cartouche on the exterior. The interior contains a mirror, covered vanity compartment, two spring-loaded coin holders, and an additional decorative compartment/card area.
The inner panel is marked:
STANDARD MAIL ORDER CO
NEW YORK
and the compact is additionally stamped:
GERMAN SILVER
The two round coin-retaining mechanisms are spring loaded and functioning. They press inward and return forward under spring tension.
Two small attachment loops along the upper edge appear to have originally accommodated a carrying chain or finger chain; the chain is not present.
Approximate size: 3" x 2.5".
Condition is antique/pre-owned with expected surface wear, scratches, patina/tarnish and finish variation from age. Mirror shows age-related wear. Interior mechanisms remain present and functional. Please examine photographs closely for exact condition.
A wonderful surviving example of an early women's dance purse / vanity compact from the era when ladies carried small evening necessaires containing cosmetics, coins and other essentials.
Maker: Standard Mail Order Co.
Location: New York
Material: German Silver / nickel-silver type alloy
Era: Early 20th century, likely circa 1910s–1920s
Type: Dance Purse / Vanity Compact / Coin Compact
Features: Mirror, spring-loaded coin holders, engraved case, chain loops
Chain: Missing
