WWI Silver Fumsup Good Luck Charm with Original Carry Tube | Soldier’s Talisman | c.1914–1918

A rare and deeply poignant piece of WWI history — a complete silver Fumsup good luck charm with its original protective metal carry tube, dating to circa 1914–1918.

The Fumsup (“thumbs up”) charm takes the form of a naked baby figure with arms raised in a permanent thumbs-up gesture, modelled after the enormously popular Kewpie doll of the era. These little silver talismans were carried by soldiers throughout the First World War as protective good luck charms — tucked into pockets, worn around the neck, or stored safely in carry tubes like this one — in the hope they would bring their bearer safely home.

What makes this example exceptional is the survival of the original screw-top metal carry tube, which kept the charm protected through the rigours of war. Complete sets of charm and tube are rare — most have been separated over the past century.

The Fumsup charm is silver, with the characteristic kewpie-style figural form and “JAPAN” mark, stored in a plain polished silver-toned cylindrical tube with knurled screw cap end.

A remarkable and complete piece of WWI militaria and social history. An outstanding addition to any WWI collection, silver collectibles collection, or display of wartime personal effects.

Product Details:

• Type: WWI soldier’s good luck charm (“Fumsup”) with original carry tube

• Material: Silver charm; metal carry tube

• Form: Kewpie-style baby figure, arms raised in thumbs-up gesture

• Mark: “JAPAN” on charm body

• Tube: Plain cylindrical, screw/knurled end cap

• Age: c.1914–1918 (World War One)

• Origin: England / Japan

Condition: Antique. Good condition consistent with age and wartime use. Some patina and toning to silver. Please review all photos carefully.