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The Crown and The Crest Birks Sterling Boxes
"These boxes bear the BIRKS- sterling mark on the bottom as well as the plaque inside their gilt lid. Both Marks are from the 30's. No information has been obtained and verified on who owned them or had them made. Edward, Prince of Wales, later Edward VIII and Duke of Windsor , was a regular customer in the 30's. The Prince issued a Royal Warrant to W.M. Birks which allowed him to use the Royal Coat of Arms and Crest. This warrant was granted with permission for it's use during W.M.'s lifetime only. Only the Prince of Wales would have given permission to have the "Crested" box made since it bears "By Appointment" under the Crest. The ribbons are embossed with the words "Ich Dien" which means "I Serve". The Plumes are applied and the words "By Appointment" are embossed not engraved. The box with the Kings Crown on it could be any of the following. Kings Edward, George V or VI. Queen Elizabeth II changed the Crown in 1953, shortly after she became Queen. Since Birks was granted a Royal Warrant during the Duke of Windsor's reign, I feel it must be from his era. They both bear "Birks" and "sterling" on the bottom and the Birks plaque inside the lid. Their marks date mid 20's-30's. "
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