Antique Rare Advance Australian 9ct Gold Enamelled Sweetheart Brooch
Antique C1908 9ct Gold "Advance Australia" Enamel Souvenir Sweetheart Brooch. A rare early period'Austalian Souvenir' sweetheart brooch. A historical gold circlet, crafted in 9ct yellow gold, featuring the original Australian coat of arms (enamelled), authorised by King Edward VII in 1908, with the words "Advance Australia" below the escutcheon, flanked either side by an emu and a kangaroo. In very good antique condition, with some light wear commensurate with age.
The rear pin is slightly bent. The C clasp is also slightly bent outwards, however the clasp holds firm. Please note that this pendant is hollow. The brooch measures approximately 23mm in diameter. The approximate weight is 2.11 grams. The hallmarks at the rear of the brooch are: Unicorn + 9 + W. There is also Rd no: 263.The Unicorn and W hallmark belongs to Willis & Sons Pty. The coat of arms of Australia were authorised by King Edward VII on 7 May 1908 and bore the motto'Advance Australia', updated version by King George V on 19 September 1912 with just the title'Australia', the 1908 version continued to be used in some contexts. Brothers Richard and Thomas Willis came to Melbourne in 1860s as jewellery importers and wholesalers. Around 1870 they began manufacturing jewellery.
The partnership was dissolved in 1874. Willis then created a company called T.
The company was growing and expending to Melbourne, Sydney and Perth. In 1904 the company name changed into Willis & Sons Pty. In 1931, the manufacturing side of the business was closed. I have given it a quick wipe over, but as with all my items I don't over clean or polish.
There may be the odd age related wear/mark commensurate with age, anything of note is listed above. Please see all photos using the zoom function available, as they constitute the item description. Please note where possible packaging is recycled.Does not provide a fully tracked service. Check out my other listings for more antique, vintage and collectable silver. If you have any queries please don't hesitate to contact me.