English Estates: Dunhill Tanshell Patent (59) (F/T) (4) (T) (1953) Tobacco Pipe

This "59" Billiard from Dunhill was crafted in 1953, and is a stellar example of the historic marque's timeless shaping style. Rendered in Group 4 dimensions, the proportions are perfectly spot on, with the stout shank seamlessly leading into the hand-cut, tapered stem. The firm's Tanshell finish tastefully highlights the briar's grain patterns in a textured sandblast that's been lightly stained to promote patination. A Tanshell patent piece, this is a rare and collectible pipe sure to catch the eye of Dunhill enthusiasts.

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.