Kiko Apple Leather Wrap African Meerschaum-Lined Pipe

Kiko Apple Leather Wrap African Meerschaum-Lined Pipe - This vintage Kiko apple pipe from the Tanganyika Meerschaum Corporation showcases the distinctive craftsmanship of East African pipe making with its genuine African meerschaum-lined bowl wrapped in finely hand-stitched light brown leather. The supple leather covering extends across both the bowl and shank, creating an attractive contrast while the African meerschaum lining delivers the cool, dry smoking qualities for which these historic pipes are known.

A solid metal shank fitting reinforces the connection to the black straight stem, adding durability and a refined transition between stem and bowl. The stem bears Kilimanjaro's iconic white rhinoceros logo, the hallmark of authentic Kiko pipes. The shank is stamped "5A KIKO" on one side and "Made in Tanganyika" on the other, confirming its origin during the Tanganyika era and adding to its collectible appeal.

Crafted with genuine Amboseli block meerschaum, this unsmoked pipe has been exceptionally well preserved despite being more than 50 years old. It has been exceptionally well preserved and includes its original Kilimanjaro presentation box, which displays only minor signs of age. The box is printed with the Kilimanjaro name on the lid and the Tanganyika Meerschaum Corporation name and rhinoceros logo on the side, further enhancing its historical provenance.

Also included is the original illustrated booklet describing the history of African meerschaum, along with photographs and descriptions of the various Kiko pipe styles, further enhancing the pipe's historical significance and collector appeal.

In 1955, the Tanganyika Meerschaum Corporation was established by businessmen from Nairobi after valuable meerschaum deposits were discovered near the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. Additional deposits were later found near Lake Amboseli. African meerschaum from this region was recognized for being denser and less porous than Turkish meerschaum, giving it distinctive smoking characteristics.

Following the 1964 union of Tanganyika and Zanzibar to form Tanzania, production eventually came to an end, making surviving Kiko pipes increasingly scarce.

With its documented Tanganyika origin, original presentation box and booklet, authentic African meerschaum lining, and outstanding state of preservation, this vintage Kiko apple pipe is a rare collectible and an exceptional opportunity to own an important piece of East African pipe-making history.

All dimensions are approximate.

Length: 6.2"
Height: 1.8"
Width: 1.5"
Bowl Depth: 1.3"
Bowl Dia.: 0.60"

Guarantee: All of our pipes come with a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee.
Availability: Generally ships within 24-48 hours.
Discounts: Contact us for wholesale pricing.