News from Spink

FRANK SINATRA’S STAMP BOX TO BE SOLD AT AUCTION WITH SPINK IN JULY

On the 15th of July 2009, Spink will auction The “Blue Eyes” Collection, a group of over 500 fine and rare stamp boxes.  This outstanding collection was formed over a period of 35 years by a prominent collector, with an emphasis on the very rare and unusual. It is without doubt the most comprehensive collection of stamp boxes ever assembled, with many unique and unusual items never before seen. Estimates for the collection range from £30 to £30,000.

Featured in the collection is a Faberge box originally owned by Mr & Mrs Frank Sinatra. The superb jeweled silver gilt and guilloche enamel box by Faberge with imperial warrant for 1899-1908, was produced in Moscow in 1899 and is undoubtedly unique. It has a rectangular design with a hinged lid centering a laurel wreath with a cabochon sapphire join against a silver-gilt field.  The corners, with cabochon sapphire mounted rosettes, enclose two pink guilloche enameled panels and open to reveal a removable fitted three sloped compartment for stamps.  The box was purchased by Sinatra in 1973 at auction and was acquired by the present owner in 1995 from the Mr. & Mrs. Frank Sinatra auction at Christies.  The box was also exhibited at “A la Vielle Russie” in New York from the 25th of October to the 7th of November in 1961. This item is estimated at £35,000-40,000.

About Spink

Spink is the world’s leading auctioneer of coins, stamps, medals and banknotes with offices in London, Singapore, New York and Dallas.  Since its foundation in 1666, the Spink name has become synonymous with tradition, experience and integrity. Holders of three royal warrants and numerous records for prices achieved at auction, Spink offer an unparalleled range of services to collectors worldwide.

Public Enquiries:  020 7563 4000 – www.spink.com or info@spink.com

Images:  Spink Press Office on 020 7563 4009