Vintage Elgin American “Magic Action” Cigarette Case and Lighter, Gold-Tone Engine-Turned Metal, Mid-20th Century
Vintage Elgin American “Magic Action” Cigarette Case and Lighter, Gold-Tone Engine-Turned Metal, Mid-20th Century
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Additional Description: A stylish vintage Elgin American Magic Action cigarette case with integrated lighter, crafted in gold-tone metal with elegant decorative detailing. The exterior features a diamond-engraved pattern centered by an ornate scrollwork cartouche with oval medallion, giving the piece a refined Art Deco–influenced appearance.
The interior reveals a beautifully machined engine-turned guilloché pattern composed of overlapping circular motifs, a hallmark of higher-quality metal finishing during the period. A spring-loaded metal retaining arm secures cigarettes inside the case.
The upper corner houses the distinctive Magic Action lighter mechanism. When the lid is opened, the lighter assembly is automatically positioned for use—a clever mechanical feature that made these cases popular luxury smoking accessories.
A small metal plaque near the hinge reads “LOCK,” referencing the internal locking mechanism used to secure the case.
Era: Circa 1940s–1950s
History: Elgin American was a prominent American manufacturer of luxury smoking accessories during the mid-20th century. The company produced cigarette cases, compacts, and combination lighter cases that were widely sold through department stores and jewelry counters.
The Magic Action design represented an innovative mechanical solution that combined two everyday accessories—lighter and cigarette case—into a single compact object. These pieces were frequently given as gifts and were marketed as stylish gentleman’s accessories.
Provenance: Austin, TX
Materials: Gold-tone metal (likely brass with plated finish)
Engine-turned interior metal
Mechanical lighter assembly
Spring-loaded cigarette holder
Dimensions: TBD
Disclaimers: Surface scratches and minor wear consistent with age and handling.
Light patina and small dark marks present on the metal finish.
Lighter mechanism untested and may require flint, wick, or fuel to operate.
Interior retaining arm and hinge appear intact.
Additional Description: A stylish vintage Elgin American Magic Action cigarette case with integrated lighter, crafted in gold-tone metal with elegant decorative detailing. The exterior features a diamond-engraved pattern centered by an ornate scrollwork cartouche with oval medallion, giving the piece a refined Art Deco–influenced appearance.
The interior reveals a beautifully machined engine-turned guilloché pattern composed of overlapping circular motifs, a hallmark of higher-quality metal finishing during the period. A spring-loaded metal retaining arm secures cigarettes inside the case.
The upper corner houses the distinctive Magic Action lighter mechanism. When the lid is opened, the lighter assembly is automatically positioned for use—a clever mechanical feature that made these cases popular luxury smoking accessories.
A small metal plaque near the hinge reads “LOCK,” referencing the internal locking mechanism used to secure the case.
Era: Circa 1940s–1950s
History: Elgin American was a prominent American manufacturer of luxury smoking accessories during the mid-20th century. The company produced cigarette cases, compacts, and combination lighter cases that were widely sold through department stores and jewelry counters.
The Magic Action design represented an innovative mechanical solution that combined two everyday accessories—lighter and cigarette case—into a single compact object. These pieces were frequently given as gifts and were marketed as stylish gentleman’s accessories.
Provenance: Austin, TX
Materials: Gold-tone metal (likely brass with plated finish)
Engine-turned interior metal
Mechanical lighter assembly
Spring-loaded cigarette holder
Dimensions: TBD
Disclaimers: Surface scratches and minor wear consistent with age and handling.
Light patina and small dark marks present on the metal finish.
Lighter mechanism untested and may require flint, wick, or fuel to operate.
Interior retaining arm and hinge appear intact.