English Estates: Dunhill Tanshell (4102) (2013) (Unsmoked) Tobacco Pipe

A wonderfully regal and classic bent Billiard, this "02" from Dunhill is a Group 4 rendition, with the rather plump bowl boasting a deep chamber and stout, insulating walls. The curving heel extends into the gently arcing shank and stem, resulting in a sweeping, seamless silhouette that suits this pipe perfectly. Dressed in the English marque's esteemed Tanshell finish, this Billiard is a handsome find.

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.