When it comes to antique silver plate, identifying the hallmarks is essential to determine its age, origin, and maker. English silver plate hallmarks are no exception. These marks are stamped onto the metal to indicate the quality of the silver, and provide a valuable insight into the history of the piece.
A hallmark is a mark stamped onto the metal of an item to indicate the quality of the silver. In the case of English silver plate, the marks indicate that the item is made of silver-plated metal, not solid silver. The hallmark also includes the name of the maker, the year the item was made, and the city or town where it was made.
English silver plate hallmarks can be divided into two main categories: makers marks and assay marks. Makers marks are the initials or symbols of the silversmith or maker of the item. Assay marks indicate the quality of the silver and the year the item was made. The most common assay marks are the lion passant, which indicates the item is made of sterling silver, and the date letter, which indicates the year the item was made.
Identifying English silver plate hallmarks can be a tricky business, as the marks can be difficult to decipher. The best way to identify the hallmarks is to use a reference book or online guide. These guides provide detailed information on the various hallmarks and their meanings. It is also important to note that some hallmarks may be incomplete or missing, which can make it difficult to identify the item.
One of the most common English silver plate hallmarks is the lion passant, which indicates the item is made of sterling silver. Other common hallmarks include the date letter, which indicates the year the item was made, and the makers mark, which is the initials or symbols of the silversmith or maker of the item. Other hallmarks include the crown, which indicates the item is made of silver-plated metal, and the leopards head, which indicates the item is made of gold-plated metal.
English silver plate hallmarks are an invaluable tool for identifying the age, origin, and maker of an item. By familiarizing yourself with the various hallmarks, you can gain a better understanding of the history of your piece. With a bit of research and a reference book or online guide, you can easily identify English silver plate hallmarks and gain a better understanding of your piece.