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Whistle

ALTERNATE NAME(S)
  • Nanny whistle
Date1880 ca.
Place MadeUnited States, North America
Place MadeEngland, Europe
Serial No.None
SignedNoneMarkingsDecorated with filigree in relief on front and back.
Silver hallmarks on front, under the decoration.
DescriptionNanny whistle made of sterling silver with an amber handle. No pea. Four nickel-silver jingle bells attached to either side of mouthpiece, and a sterling silver ring on back for attaching as a pendant.

The handles of nanny whistles were used as teething toys, the jingle bells were to entertain, and the whistle was to call for older children.
DimensionsLength: 88 mm / 3.464 in
Width (at widest point): 21.1 mm / 0.831 in
ProvenanceCollector Margaret Martin purchased this whistle in October 1993.
Credit LineMargaret Martin Collection, 1998
Object number06425
On View
On view
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