This is a genuine antique bar tool used in hotels, clubs and restaurants of the era to pierce champagne corks and draw sparkling wine in a controlled way – and it’s a serious collector’s piece today. The tool features its original turned hardwood handle, a beautifully engineered steel frame clearly stamped “HOLBORN CHAMPAGNE SCREW”, and the classic brass tap assembly with curved spout. These earlier Holborn tap corkscrews are well documented in corkscrew reference works including Ellis & Small and the ICCA archives. The frame also bears the Victorian Registered Design diamond lozenge, introduced in 1842 and discontinued in 1883. This mark alone is the hallmark of an authentic early champagne tap and securely dates this example to the late Victorian period. Please note: the small brass operating lever for the tap valve is missing, a common loss on these early examples. The handle, frame, worm and tap body remain intact and original. Still presents beautifully for display or collection. Why This Piece Is CollectableHolborn champagne taps are widely collected and rarely appear in genuine Victorian formThe RD lozenge locks it into a narrow production window approx. A fantastic example of authentic Victorian barware – perfect for collectors of antique corkscrews, champagne taps, wine tools, and early hospitality equipment.
