How do you read hallmarks on silver?

The standard mark identifies your item as being silver. The mark for sterling silver is the lion passant or the lion passant guardant. Both look like a lion in profile. On earlier pieces of silver the lion is looking toward you, and this is a lion passant guardant.

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What does WD mean on silver?

William Davies – possibly-

What does N mean on silver?

Hallmarks on British sterling (L-R): Crown signifying city of Sheffield, lion passant, Letter n of a style dating piece to 1905, maker’s insignia for Walker & Hall.

What does WF mean on silver?

WF (William Fountain [ L ] ) 19th c./1st half. WF in script (William Fountain [ L ] ) 19th c./1st half.

What does WB mean on silver?

William Boot (attributed), Birmingham 1809 hallmark.

Does silver plate have hallmarks?

Silver plate items will not have a 925 stamp or a hallmark.

Is hallmarked silver solid silver?

If your antique silver technique is truly sterling silver and not simply plated, it will be stamped with a telltale hallmark. Typically found on the bottom of the piece, a silver stamp may include: The words “Sterling Silver’ A numeric value (800, 900, 925, etc.)

What is a sterling silver hallmark?

Diane is a lover of all things beautiful; music, art, antiques and nature. Her guides bring insight to topics she cares passionately about. British sterling silver hallmarks help to identify the maker and year of manufacture of sterling silver items produced by Great Britain.

What is the International Convention on silver hallmarks?

Since 1972 the United Kingdom has been a signatory to the International Convention on Hallmarks. Silver marked in Convention countries bears a maker’s mark, a common control mark, a purity mark and a country mark. Nine examples of country marks are shown here.

Where can I find a list of all the silver marks?

Answer: The website I use for most of my research is the Encyclopedia of Silver Marks at 925-1000.com They have the most complete list of marks from around the world. Your silverware doesn’t sound English. It could be American, or just about from anywhere else.

What is a hallmark?

Hallmarks provide impartial proof of an article’s precious metal content. British hallmarks date back to medieval times. In 1757, counterfeiting hallmarks was made a felony, punishable by death. Traditionally common control marks consisted of four punches. These were: The year of testing. The 1973 Act removed the date from being a compulsory mark.