Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
A classic mid-century kiss-lock coin purse crafted from supple grained leather with a gold-tone metal frame. The interior features a built-in glass mirror and a 'Made in Western Germany' foil label, typical of high-quality post-war vanity accessories.
Story
Post-war Western Germany became a powerhouse for fine leather goods, exporting elegance to a world eager for glamour. This purse was a woman's constant companion, holding coins for the bus and a mirror for a quick lipstick touch-up.
Maker / Origin
While the specific factory is unnamed, the 'Western Germany' mark signifies a period of intense industrial pride and precision between 1949 and 1990. These workshops were world-renowned for their metal-frame engineering and durable, dyed leathers.
Condition & Value
The leather shows heavy scuffing, particularly at the corners and on the top flap where the finish has worn away. The metal frame shows some pitting and loss of gilding. These signs of use reduce the value by approximately 50% compared to a mint-condition example.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.