i love thimbles, and my "prizes" are some from the UK that were found in medieval and roman sites. there is one that is so tiny that it had to have been a child's. they are made of bronze, and are bent, dented, worn, and patina covered--and i love them. i can feel the history in them when i hold them.
i have my grandmother's old sterling thimble, too--it is plain, but elegant, with a little engraving around the edge. she was an elegant, yet understated victorian lady.
they are lovely reminders of the heritage we have. someday, we may be lucky enough to be remembered by someone who finds one of ours!