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How do I identify Sheffield silver hallmarks?

1 Answer
How do I identify Sheffield silver hallmarks?
To identify Sheffield silver hallmarks, look at images published on the Sheffield Assay Office's official website. Most silver objects produced in Sheffield, England, will feature a lion's head marking indicating 92.5% pure silver. In addition, they will usually display a crown, rose or combination of both symbols. For assistance with the identification process, use the services of a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer.

Sheffield is an English city known to collectors largely for its production of silverplate, not sterling silver. Sheffield silverplate is a durable combination of thin silver sheets and comparatively thicker sheets of copper that was used to create a variety of household objects for years.

In order to identify authentic Sheffield silverplate, you need to look for one significant attribute of the material. A metalworker had to ensure that all of the exposed edges of a particular piece had to be covered with a rim of silver. If not, the middle layer, which comprised copper, would show through. This would reveal that the piece was not sterling silver.

Find a collection of antique Sheffield silverplate on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertNovember 4, 2024
Shop for Sheffield and Silverplate on 1stDibs
A Trophy Old Sheffield Scallop Shell Shaped Serving Dish by Henry Wilkinson & Co
Located in valatie, NY
Trophy Old Sheffield Scallop Shell Shaped Serving Dish with Conch Shell Feet by Henry Wilkinson & Co of Sheffield, With Crossed Key Mark. The dish was likely a prize from a competiti...
Category

Antique Early 19th Century English Sheffield and Silverplate

Materials

Sheffield Plate

Vintage silver plated decanter Distillerie Buton Bologna, Italy, 1950s
Located in Miklavž Pri Taboru, SI
Beautiful and elegant vintage silver-plated crystal liqueur jug from the Buton distilleries, which have historically made all their products in silver from the Galbiati silver mills ...
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Mid-20th Century Italian Victorian Sheffield and Silverplate

Materials

Silver Plate

Antique English Silver Napkin Rings Set of 6 & Original Case Ornate Engraved
Located in Wembley, GB
Enhance your dining experience with this elegant set of 6 antique English silver plated napkin rings, beautifully presented in their original velvet-lined fitted case. Each ring is finely engraved with an ornate border pattern, reflecting the artistry and craftsmanship of classic English silverware. Perfect for adding a touch of heritage sophistication to your table setting, these vintage napkin rings make an impressive gift for weddings, anniversaries, or collectors of fine silver. Their well-preserved condition and complete original case make this set especially desirable for both display and practical use. Authentic antique English silver plated napkin rings Complete set of 6 rings in original fitted presentation case Ornate engraved border design with timeless appeal Rich purple velvet and silk-lined interior for elegant storage Ideal for formal dining, display, or collectible silverware collections 📏 Dimensions (approx.): 5 x 5 cm This is more than a dining accessory it’s a piece of English history, offering both charm and functionality. A wonderful way to elevate your table décor while owning a set of collectible vintage silver treasures. Antique English silver napkin rings, silver plated napkin rings set, vintage silverware dining accessories, collectible silver napkin rings, engraved silver tableware, antique silver...
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Vintage 1920s British Art Deco Sheffield and Silverplate

Materials

Metal, Silver, Silver Plate, Sterling Silver

Christopher Dresser for Hukin and Heath Silver Plate Candy Box, circa 1880
Located in Atlanta, GA
A magnificent hammered silver plate candy box designed by Dr. Christopher Dresser for Hukin & Heath, boasting an elegant scrolled branch handle and a beautifully ruffled lid. The bas...
Category

Antique 1880s English Victorian Sheffield and Silverplate

Materials

Silver Plate

Silver-Plated Footed Dish Exquisite Rectangular Antique Luxury Silver Décor Home
Located in Wembley, GB
Exquisite Small Silver-Plated Rectangular Footed Dish – Antique Luxury with Sterling Silver Style This small elegant silver-plated trinket dish is a fine example of timeless craftsma...
Category

Antique Early 1900s English Art Deco Sheffield and Silverplate

Materials

Agate, Silver, Britannia Standard Silver, Silver Plate, Sterling Silver,...

Set of 10 Silver-Plated Rose Napkin Rings, Vintage Table Décor Collection Foral
Located in Wembley, GB
Set of 10 Silver-Plated Rose Napkin Rings, Vintage Table Décor Collection A luxurious set of 10 silver-plated napkin rings, each exquisitely shaped as a blooming rose with detailed l...
Category

Vintage 1920s British Art Deco Sheffield and Silverplate

Materials

Metal, Sterling Silver, Silver Plate, Silver

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