Lot 28 , A rare English ivory Teetotum gambling ball, mid 18th century, approx. 1.9in. diameter

A rare English ivory Teetotum gambling ball, mid 18th century, incised with numbers 1- 32 and a crown, approx. 1.9in. diameter
Estimate £2,000-3,000

A Teetotum or "Totum" meaning the whole is a many facetted spinning top with each side numbered. It acts in the same way as spinning dice, but if it is made true which is what the incised crown on this example denotes, there is an equal chance of any number turning up which is not the case with dice. This ivory Teetotum ball has 32 sides and the gambling game of Staking on a Teetotum is recorded in 1753 and has its origins in the early 18th century, when it was inscribed with letters and not numbers. A similar example was formerly in the John Farndon Collection.

Uneven discolouration to the ball ranging from a dark golden to pale white tones, numerous small dents, nicks and old surface cracks running throughout with one larger more notable eroded hole beside number 3 just to the lower right of the crown but essentially good condition for its age.


Descriptions provided in both printed and on-line catalogue formats do not include condition reports. The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Interested bidders are strongly encouraged to request a condition report on any lots upon which they intend to bid, prior to placing a bid. All transactions are governed by Gorringes Conditions of Sale.

Sold for £1,750