The Links of London “Big Spender” Charm is one of the brand’s most playful and memorable novelty designs, released in the 2000s when charm collecting was at its peak. Crafted in solid sterling silver with a black enamel detail, this piece transforms a simple credit card into a witty jewellery statement celebrating life’s little indulgences.
Vintage Links of London “Big Spender” Charm – Credit Card Design
Design & Features
- Shape: Miniature credit card with rounded corners, engraved with “BIG SPENDER” and a playful faux card number: 1999 2888 3777 4978.
- Back Detail: Hand-applied 3mm black enamel strip, designed to resemble the magnetic stripe of a real debit or credit card — a nod to the swipe era before contactless payments became the norm.
- Material: Solid 925 sterling silver with standard Links of London hallmarks.
- Dimensions: Approximately 18mm wide, 14mm high (excluding bail), 1.8mm thick.
- Bail: Standard oval charm bail (approx. 9mm × 7mm) fits necklaces and bracelets up to 5mm wide. Supplied with a split ring for Sweetie bracelets.
- Hallmarks: Stamped “LL 925” with date letter (e.g., our archive piece is hallmarked for 2008).
Vintage Links of London “Big Spender” Charm – Credit Card Design
Period & Collection
The “Big Spender” Charm was part of Links of London’s *Timeless Charms* range, known for its whimsical takes on everyday objects. Charms like this credit card were especially popular during the mid-2000s charm bracelet boom, when customers could personalise bracelets with pieces that reflected their personality and sense of humour.
Vintage Links of London “Big Spender” Charm – Credit Card Design
Rarity & Collectibility
While not the rarest of Links of London novelty charms, the “Big Spender” is prized for its fun concept and the intact condition of its enamel strip — which can often show wear in vintage examples. Authentic versions should always carry the full hallmark on the bail and clean, clear engraved details.
Vintage Links of London “Big Spender” Charm – Credit Card Design
Buying Tips
- Check that the black enamel strip is intact, with no major chips or cracks.
- Look for the full “LL 925” hallmark and, where visible, the correct date letter.
- Genuine pieces usually include the split ring for Sweetie bracelet attachment, though this may be missing on older pre-owned charms.
Vintage Links of London “Big Spender” Charm – Credit Card Design
Example from The Archive
This documented example is hallmarked for 2008 and has been professionally cleaned and polished. It measures 18mm wide × 14mm high (excluding the bail) and retains the original black enamel stripe in excellent condition.
Vintage Links of London “Big Spender” Charm – Credit Card Design
FAQs
Is the Big Spender Charm solid silver?
Yes. This novelty charm is crafted in solid 925 sterling silver with enamel detail.
Was it sold in other finishes?
No. There are no verified gold vermeil or gemstone versions of the Big Spender Charm — it was only produced in sterling silver with enamel.
When was it released?
Examples have been found with date letters from the late 2000s — most were produced around 2006–2010, when Links of London novelty charms were at their peak.
Can I wear it on a Sweetie bracelet?
Yes. It includes a split ring for easy attachment to a Sweetie bracelet or any classic Links of London charm bracelet.
Where can I find one?
Restored vintage examples are occasionally available through trusted vintage retailers or specialist charm archives like The Vault.
