Vintage 1998 Links of London Sterling Silver Crocodile Card Holder

The Vintage 1998 Links of London Sterling Silver Crocodile Card Holder sits at the intersection of heritage and modern design. A piece that looks contemporary even today, it carries with it a story that stretches back to the 18th century, when society first embraced the ritual of calling cards.

From Calling Cards to Business Cards

Visiting cards, or calling cards, became fashionable across Europe in the 18th century, reaching their height in the Victorian era. They required purpose-made cases—often in silver—that became status symbols in themselves. Makers like Nathaniel Mills and other Birmingham silversmiths produced ornate examples, including the celebrated “castle-top” cases engraved with architectural landmarks. These historic pieces are now prized by collectors for their craftsmanship and cultural significance.

Reinventing the Card Case

As the tradition of visiting cards faded, the form of the case endured. By the late 20th century, brands reimagined these cases for a new purpose: business and bank cards. Links of London was among the British jewellers to revisit the idea, producing a range of sterling silver card holders that combined heritage cues with bold contemporary textures. The crocodile pattern seen here is a direct nod to traditional leather goods, translated into silver with a tactile, light-catching finish.

Close-up of crocodile textured silver card case hinge by Links of London.

Design and Dimensions

Material: Solid 925 sterling silver with crocodile-skin embossed texture
Dimensions: 94mm × 62mm × 10mm
Weight: 77 grams
Hallmarks: Full UK hallmarks including Links of London sponsor’s mark, sterling standard, Edinburgh Assay Office mark, and 1998 date letter
Interior: Plain polished silver, lightly tarnished but designed to burnish naturally with use
Capacity: Holds 4 standard debit or credit cards (tight for 5); equally suitable for business or membership cards
Condition: Originally unused and now professionally cleaned and polished; hinge opens and closes smoothly and secures firmly

1998 hallmarked sterling silver Links of London crocodile card holder.

The Importance of Hallmarks

Unlike plated pieces, this case is solid sterling silver and bears full UK hallmarks. These marks guarantee purity and provide provenance: the sponsor’s mark (LL for Links of London), the fineness (925), the Edinburgh Assay Office stamp, and the 1998 date letter. For collectors, hallmarks are as much a part of the design as the pattern itself, offering authenticity and a tangible link to its era.

Links of London vintage sterling silver crocodile card holder interior.

A Modern Collector’s Piece

Weighing 77 grams, this card holder is substantial in the hand—far more than a functional accessory, it’s a conversation piece. The crocodile embossing disguises fine scratches from daily use, just as Victorian guilloché patterns once did. The design combines wit, durability, and elegance, making it one of Links of London’s most successful men’s accessories of the late 1990s.

Part of The Vault

This sterling silver card holder is now part of The Vault Collection, our curated archive of vintage Links of London designs. It sits alongside other gentlemen’s accessories, reminding us that true luxury is often found in the smallest details.