Rare Victorian Silver & Enamel England v Australia Ashes Cricket Vesta Case

A fine and rare Victorian silver and enamel Souvenir Vesta Case with cricket interest, of rounded rectangular form with attached suspension ring, the front enamelled in bright colours with a kangaroo batsman and a lion wicket keeper between the text :- 'The Sportsman for Cricket News'. The reverse with presentation inscription:- 'Souvenir, England v Australia. Presented to C.L Townsend. By The Proprietors of ""The Sportsman"", London Sept 1899.'

By William Neale, Chester, 1899.

These Vesta Cases were presented by The 'Sportsman' to each player who represented England in the 1899 Ashes Series.

Charles L Townsend made his 2 Test appearances for England in the Ashes Series of 1899, playing in the 2nd Test at Lords and the 5th Test at The Oval. The Australians won the test at Lords and drew the Oval Test. Australia won the series 1 - 0.

Sold - £3,500.00