English Estates: Dunhill Shell Briar (PO) (4) (S) (1967) Tobacco Pipe

As opposed to the current four digit numbering system, from the 1920's until the early 1970's, Dunhill used a two digit/letter system for designating their shapes. This "PO" dated to 1967 is a bent Bulldog. Thanks to the thin nomenclature panel running along the bottom of the stummel, not only is the pipe able to sit erect on its own, but the shank — which normally would have a diamond cross-section — is basically a pentagon. The five lines of the pentagonal cross section continue into the stem before merging into the two outside edges as the bit's delphine, tapering arc brings the mouthpiece to its flattened terminating point at the button. Like the similar "OX" saddle Bulldog, this "PO" is missing the classic shape's signature double beadlines around the waist. Instead, flaring out dramatically from a stately pointed heel, the bowl meets a single, sharply defined edge that marks the abrupt inversion of direction where the bowl begins to taper in toward the flat rim.

The Shell Briar's addition to the Dunhill catalog was a pivotal moment in pipe-smoking history. Before 1917, pipes with sandblasted finishes had never been made, and Alfred Dunhill's innovative mind created arguably the most popular finish for pipes today when he unveiled the Shell Briar. With its dark, reserved color palette and delightful texture, it's no surprise that it's still wildly popular over a century later.