British Sterling Silver Flatware Piece with Duty and Assay Marks
Flatware - Spoon or Fork · Unknown British Silversmith (Partial/Unclear Maker's Mark)
Pattern: Unidentified Traditional British Flatware Pattern
Type
Flatware - Spoon or Fork
Maker
Unknown British Silversmith (Partial/Unclear Maker's Mark)
Material
British Sterling Silver (.925 fineness)
Dimensions
Standard individual flatware sizing; weight undetermined from visible stamp area alone
Description
A close-up view of the reverse terminal of a British sterling silver flatware piece, showcasing a clear and authentic series of Georgian-era hallmarks including the duty mark profile, standard marks, and maker's stamp area.
Key Features
Authentic British hallmark sequence including the sovereign's duty mark, guaranteeing period sterling silver standard composition.
Material & Composition
British Sterling Silver (.925 fineness)
Finish & Decoration
Traditional polished silver surface with standard handle construction
Hallmarks & Stamps
Clear sequence of British hallmarks visible including a duty mark profile head (likely George III or IV), sovereign's head, standard mark, and assay office/date identifiers
Construction Details
Traditional British die-struck and hand-finished sterling silver flatware construction
Functional Features
Standard utility flatware handle reverse terminal bearing official hallmarks
Handle & Grip Details
Solid sterling silver handle tapering toward the terminal
Craftsmanship Details
Deeply and cleanly struck punch marks indicating high-quality traditional British silversmithing standards.
Authentication Indicators
Genuine struck British hallmarks with characteristic punch borders, correct sovereign duty mark profile, and standard assay structure.
Origin & Manufacturing
United Kingdom (British Assay Office)
Era & Period
Late Georgian to early Victorian Period, indicated by the style of the duty mark profile head
Age Estimate
Circa 1790 to 1840 based on the visible monarch duty mark
Cultural Significance
Reflects the strict regulatory oversight and hallmark traditions enforced by the British assay offices to protect consumers and maintain high standards of silversmithing.
Condition Notes
Moderate surface tarnish, light scratching, and wear consistent with antique age; hallmarks remain crisp and legible.
Value Estimate
Dependent on the complete piece, maker, and weight, typically ranging from $50 to $300 for individual antique flatware pieces.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with professional silver polish and a soft cloth; avoid harsh dips; store in an anti-tarnish pouch.
Similar Pieces
Standard 18th and 19th-century British sterling silver spoons and forks by makers such as Hester Bateman or Paul Storr.
Interesting Facts
British duty marks were introduced in 1784 under George III to show that the silver tax had been paid to the Crown, making them crucial for dating antique British silver.