mention sterling and silver-plated versions
An extremely rare "Wet Your Whistle" jigger by Napier, 1930s. This magical figural jigger is still in the original box (the jewelry store it was purchased at in the 30s). Napier made this jigger in both silver-plated as well as sterling silver. This jigger is the silver-plated version. The term "wet your whistle" came about in 14th century. Whistle refers to the throat, and Wet Your Whistle became a popular slogan for having an alcoholic spirit. This jigger has the words 'Wet Your Whistle" etched on the front and the jigger mimics a real-life whistle (with a place to blow the whistle). This jigger also has 1 ounce and 1 1/2 ounces Etched onto the other side, for the perfect measure/pour. Truly a magical and rare figural piece.
A quick bit of history on Napier: The Napier Company was named after its president, James H. Napier, who led the company from 1920 to 1960. But the company's history can be tracked back to 1875 when it was founded as Whitney and Rice in Attleboro, Mass., manufacturing silver products. The firm changed hands and name in 1882 and became Carpenter and Bliss and shortly thereafter, E.A. Bliss and Co., Inc. After rapid expansion in the late 1880s the company moved to Meriden, CT in 1890. After WWI, the firm shifted emphasis from silver products to production of modern jewelry. James Napier became president in 1920 and the company adopted the name Napier - Bliss Co. In 1922, the name was changed to Napier Company. Like many jewelry companies Napier got into lines of art objects and other utilitarian objects like cocktail shakers and jiggers.
Measurements: Approx. 4" tall
Maker/Era: Napier, 1930s
Hallmarks: "Napier" can be found inside the whistle end in tiny letters (see photo)
Condition: Very good vintage condition with mild signs of age and tarnish. We're unsure if this jigger was ever used as its still in its original cotton wrapping and box. However, there's some mild age that comes purely from time. Here's a full summary:
1) There's mild patina (we have not polished this piece)
2) The whistle end is ever so slightly out of round (likely a manufacturing occurrence)
3) The box shows quite a bit of age
Truly a stunning measure. Cheers.
**On shipping: We take our packaging very seriously and carefully wrap all pieces to ensure safe delivery.
****Important to note pre-purchase: Buyers, please examine all photos carefully as we cannot accept returns due to the fragile nature (the possibility of breakage or damage when being shipped back) of our vintage/antique pieces. Our items are true vintage pieces that might have manufacturers flaws, flaws from age, or imperfections in general from being vintage. We try to explain the condition/description in an accurate and thorough manner but we ask that you please examine all photos carefully and ask all questions before purchasing an item as we are unable to accept returns due to the risk of breakage/damage. Cheers!