Silver hallmarks are an important part of antique silver collecting. They are small markings stamped onto silver items that help to identify the maker, the standard of purity, and the date of manufacture. In England, silver hallmarks have been used since the 13th century and are still used today. Understanding English silver hallmarks can help you to identify and date the pieces in your collection.
Silver hallmarks are small symbols stamped onto silver items that indicate the purity of the silver, the maker, and the date of manufacture. The marks are usually found on the back or bottom of the item, and may include the makers name, the purity of the silver, and the date of manufacture. Silver hallmarks are regulated by law, and it is illegal to sell silver items without the proper hallmarks.
English silver hallmarks are divided into five parts. The first mark is the town mark, which indicates the city or town where the item was made. The second mark is the date letter, which indicates the year the item was made. The third mark is the duty mark, which indicates that the item was made after 1784 when a duty was imposed on silver items. The fourth mark is the makers mark, which indicates the name of the maker. The fifth mark is the standard mark, which indicates the purity of the silver.
Reading English silver hallmarks can be tricky. The symbols used for the hallmarks are often very small and may be difficult to make out. It is important to use a magnifying glass to help you read the marks. Once you have identified the marks, you can use a silver hallmark guide to help you identify the maker, the purity, and the date of manufacture.
Silver hallmark guides can be found online or in books. Online guides are often available for free and can provide detailed information about English silver hallmarks. Books are also available that provide detailed information about silver hallmarks. These books can be found in antique stores, bookstores, and libraries.
English silver hallmarks are an important part of antique silver collecting. Understanding these hallmarks can help you to identify and date the pieces in your collection. Silver hallmark guides can be found online or in books to help you identify the maker, the purity, and the date of manufacture. With a little bit of research, you can become an expert in English silver hallmarks.