English Estates: Dunhill Root Briar Billiard (DR****) (1989) Tobacco Pipe

Dated to 1989, this Billiard is a piece of Dunhill history. Furthermore, this piece earned Dunhill's esteemed "DR" (Dead Root) stamp, as well as four star stamps, further enhancing its collectibility. The shaping is archetypal, featuring a pert, rounded bowl atop a rolled heel at the fore of a round shank and tapered vulcanite stem. The esteemed Root Briar finish reveals excellent flame grain all around the bowl, making this a piece sure to interest fans of Dunhill's finest work.

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.