AJN (possibly
Alfred Jerrold Nathan) stamped on the band with marks for Birmingham 1904
Nathan, Alfred Jerrold & Co. (Agents) - 24 New Bridge St. E.C
MESSRS. ALFRED I. NATHAN & CO., SOLE MANUFACTURERS OF THE “ANCHOR” BRIAR-ROOT PIPES,
13, KING WILLIAM STREET, E.C.
"SMOKERS are a notoriously conservative, race, and the strength of the eminent firm of Messrs. Alfred J. Nathan & Co. lies in the fact that they have not attempted to push any new-fangled principles of pipe manufacture on the market, but have devoted their whole energies to the production of the good old briar in perfection. The head of the firm, Mr. Alfred J. Nathan, is well known among connoisseurs to be one of the best, if not the best living judge of pipes, both ancient and modern, and his perfect taste is evident in every department of their largely increasing business. Their “Anchor” brand is familiar to every wideawake smoker. These pipes are made of specially selected wood, which is thoroughly seasoned for at least twelve months before it is allowed to go in the turner’s hands. It is then put through another complete and severe test by the aid of a process only known to Messrs. A. J. Nathan & Co., after which it is well-nigh impossible for the pipe to crack or burn. They are light and graceful in design, and are finished in the most elegant manner. Although upwards of two hundred and forty gross were sold within the space of six months, only seven pipes were returned as defective. Some smokers say that buying a briar is like taking a share in a lottery. If so, the purchaser of an “Anchor” briar is in the position of a shareholder in a lottery where there are five thousand prizes to one blank; and, even if he is unfortunate enough to draw the blank, is so happily placed as to have his money returned. As every pipe is guaranteed, both as regards the bowl and stem, it is the purchaser’s own fault if he does not take advantage of the offer the firm makes in the printed guarantee, placed in the bowl of every pipe sent out, and of which the following is a copy:— “ All our pipes and other goods which bear our ‘Anchor’ brand are guaranteed and are of the finest quality. Should the bowl crack or burn the purchaser may demand a new bowl to be fitted to the mouthpiece entirely free of charge. Any tobacconist in the United Kingdom is empowered to send the pipe to us for that purpose. This guarantee need not be kept as the brand on the article is sufficient. — A. J. N. & Co.”
("ILLUSTRATED LONDON AND ITS REPRESENTATIVES OF COMMERCE"
The London Printing and Engraving Co 1893)
+ Rattray's HIGHLAND TARGE