Antique 1924 London silver Hallmarked trump marker possiblyJ.E ? Slightly rubbed makers name. Other Hallmarks are clear. Bridge trump marker or suit indicator. A stunning, rare item. The small square markers are clear, slight rubbing on spade marker. probably Bakelite.
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Size: 8 cm tall 4 cm round at base
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Some minor age related wear. The price is for trump marker. All other items are illustration/ for sale separately. May sell together - please contact us for pricing etc
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This antique or vintage bridge trump marker, also known as a suit indicator, is used in card games like Bridge to indicate the trump suit or "no trumps".
This particular marker displays "No Trumps" on one of its swing cards, indicating a "no trump" contract in Bridge, where no suit is designated as trump.
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It typically features a weighted base for stability and a frame supporting the cards, which often include the four suits (hearts, diamonds, clubs, spades) and "no trumps".
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These markers are often made of silver and may be hallmarked, indicating their origin and age.
They are considered collectible items, especially older or more elaborate examples.
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Bakelite, invented by Leo Baekeland in 1907, was the world's first fully synthetic plastic. This thermosetting polymer is a phenol formaldehyde resin known for its heat resistance, durability, and electrical insulation properties, making it ideal for early electrical components, radios, telephones, and household items.
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Key characteristics
Synthetic resin:
It was the first plastic to be completely man-made from synthetic components.
Thermosetting:
Unlike thermoplastics, Bakelite undergoes a chemical change when heated, permanently hardening and becoming infusible.
Durable and resistant:
Bakelite is known for its hardness, chemical resistance, and ability to withstand high heat.
Electrical insulator:
Its non-conductive properties made it crucial for electrical applications.
Asbestos content:
Early Bakelite often incorporated asbestos fibers as a filler to enhance its heat and electrical resistance, a dangerous component that is now banned.
Uses and cultural impact
Electrical goods:
It was widely used for electrical fittings, housings for radios and telephones, and other electronic components.
Household items:
Bakelite was a popular material for kitchenware, jewelry, cigarette cases, and various other everyday objects.
Collecting:
Vintage Bakelite items are now popular collector's items due to their historical significance and unique aesthetic.
Inventor
Leo Baekeland: The Belgian-born American chemist who patented the process for creating Bakelite in 1907 and was granted the patent in 1909.
