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Discover Mid-America - November 2004

Collectible corkscrews can be costly

Sometimes corkscrews can be more vintage than the wine they uncork. Would you believe some are even signed? A 1950’s, signed corkscrew with bottle opener, recently sold at a Treadway/Toomey auction for $275. When corkscrews from the 19th century turn up at auctions, the price can be as much as a thousand dollars. These days, old corkscrews not only have a practical purpose, but as collectors are discovering, they are growing in value.

What counts is a unique design, signature of a known designer and materials used. Even plain varieties can cost over a thousand dollars if they have a patent date and number. The hunt for them becomes even more interesting when you realize there are hundreds of types. Materials used for the handles can be of fine porcelain, sterling silver, wood, ivory and stainless steel.

Corkscrews were born out of necessity as early as the mid-15th century. When the wine was transferred from wooden barrels to age in small stoneware or glass containers, they weren’t stoppered and rodents damaged the contents. The problem was solved with corks that were cut off flush with the bottle top and sealed with wax. At first, a simple, metal “worm” or screw was used to remove the corks. By 1795 the first patent for a corkscrew was issued to an Englishman, Samueld Henshall. Since then the corkscrew has consisted of a handle, shaft and screw.

CLUES

There are three basic types to look for, each with many additional styles. The simplest is the “T” handle. Others use a lever or a more involved mechanism. Categories include those made for bars, patented and miniatures. The latter were made as early as 1750. However, miniatures made in the early 20th century are equally collectible.

The type of screw usually determines the country of origin. Americans used the center screw, as did the Germans. Nickel plate also was used by the Germans, while the Italians used chrome plate or solid brass. English corkscrews used the helix screw of steel.

Silver was often combined with ivory. If you decide to specialize in silver handled corkscrews, you can usually check the hallmark for date, maker and country of origin.

During the mid-to late-19th century the English were prolific in applying for patents. The names given were as novel as the patents. “The Royal Club” patented in 1864 by Charles

Hull and “Magic Lever,” 1925. Shape also determines name, such as the “eyebrow.”

Novelty corkscrews are easy to spot, and depending on material and subject, they can be overpriced. Handles may have miniature figures of horse heads, bottles, sportsmen or heads of people. One popular novelty, known as “old Snifter,” depicts the head of U.S. Sen.

Volstead whose “Volstead Act” made Prohibition law. These can sell for several hundred dollars in a shop.

Often reproduced is the “Naughty Nineties,” originally made in celluloid and nickel silver in the shape of a woman’s legs. The stockings are pink and white striped. It was made in Germany. The authentic corkscrew can sell at auctions for $300 and up.

Multi-purpose corkscrews made from the 19th to early 20th century are yet another collecting possibility.

The 1950s bar set that sold at Treadway/Toomey had a lot going for it, especially the modern design. It was also signed and engraved by Carl Aubok, noted modernist, Austrian designer. As with all collectibles, condition is important.

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