A muffineer is a small perforated container used to sprinkle salts. These containers are called muffineers because they were used to sprinkle salt on buttered muffins. Muffineers are similar in form to casters but a little smaller in size.
Muffineers were made in sets of three where one container was bigger than the other two. The smaller two containers were used for pepper- one for Jamaica and one for cayenne. The larger container was used for sugar.
English muffineers from the time of Charles II (r. 1660-1685) were cylindrical. The top was attached to the body by an elbow joint which had two lugs soldered to the lower part of the top. The rim of the body had grooved molding.
The earliest muffineers were made of silver. Some of the later models were made of Sheffield plate, silver plate, or glass. New models are no longer made as people prefer modern salt shakers.
Value
Antique silver muffineers are rare and they can sell for hundreds of dollars. Some early pieces can sell for over $1,000. Most antique silver plated pieces will sell for less than $100.
Sources:
The Book of Old Silver