English Estates: Dunhill Root Briar Billiard (DR) (G) (1961) Tobacco Pipe

Dated to 1961, this Billiard is a piece of Dunhill history. Furthermore, this piece earned Dunhill's esteemed "DR" (Dead Root) stamp, further enhancing its collectibility. Although Dunhill's Root Briars commonly break from their traditional shape-chart to maximize the grain pattern, this Billiard closely resembles the marque's "03" in Group 2 proportions. The bowl showcases truly incredible grain here, with stunning tendrils of straight grain sweeping across the supple walls. However, the most fascinating element of the grain are the undulating growth rings, which are so pronounced one can actually feel their texture despite being dressed in the Root Briar smooth finish.

Dunhill's "DR" designation on certain Root Briars signifies a special class of pipes: Dead Root. Like all Root Briars, these pieces maintain flawless briar, but with especially choice grain on display. Before the Root Briar line's introduction in 1931, "DR" was stamped on Bruyere pipes that showed handsome grain, but Dunhill wanted a more grain-defining finish, leading to the creation of the Root Briar. Starting in 1979, The White Spot extended the grade further — replacing the letter grading system with stars, increasing in prestige from one to seven. A Dead Root pipe represents the best of Dunhill's standard selection, yet remains quite rare compared to the English marque's overall lineup.