English Estates: Dunhill Tanshell Patent (35) (3) (T) (1953) Tobacco Pipe

Dated to 1953, this Group 3-sized Billiard from Dunhill is dressed in the marque's rarely seen Tanshell finish, which was first introduced just the year prior to this pipe being made, making it all the more desirable. Even if it didn't have all that in its favor, this is one well-executed, sleek English-style Billiard. There's a respectable amount of chamber within, and it's also a sturdy Sitter thanks to the shank's flattened base. The Tanshell application on this piece has a dark, ruby tinge to it, further elevating its traditional appeal.

Created in 1951, the Tanshell marked Dunhill's fourth finish behind the Bruyere (1910), Shell Briar (1917), and Root Briar (1931); however, Dunhill didn't complete the "Tanshell" stamp until December 1951, waiting until 1952 to actually introduce the first Tanshell pipes. Considered one of the English marque's rarest, most collectible finishes, the Tanshell boasts a concise sandblast but unlike the dark-stained Shell Briar, the Tanshell is naturally stained, intended to develop a warm patina as it darkens with prolonged use over time.