Coin Silver Presentation Tumbler

Description:

Coin Silver Presentation Tumbler, probably Boston, late 18th century, tapered cylindrical form with reeded rim, the side engraved with an officer on horseback and inscribed "Major William Perkins/Boston," (dents),ht. 3 1/4 in., approx. 4 troy oz.

Note: According to The Massachusetts Historical Society biography, William Perkins (1742-October 27, 1802) was the son of William and Elizabeth (Palfrey) Perkins of Boston. He married Abigail Cox in Boston on December 20, 1763, and had several children. In May 1775 he was appointed lieutenant in Gridley's Regiment of Massachusetts Artillery; captain in Knox's Regiment of Continental Artillery on December 10, 1775; captain in the Third Continental Artillery on January 1, 1777; promoted to major on September 12, 1778, and lieutenant colonel by brevet on April 20, 1787. During his military career, Perkins served in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. A notable episode in his career was the service of his artillery unit in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, during the spring of 1778. From 1779 to 1781 he oversaw military stores in Providence, Rhode Island.

After the war, Perkins served as the commander of the fort on Castle Island in Boston Harbor from 1785 to 1798, and later was appointed inspector and measurer of Boston.
Estimate $500-700

Three small deep dents on side.

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