George V Sterling Silver Two-Handled Trophy Cup by Walker & Hall
Trophy/Cup · Walker & Hall (Sheffield, England). Established 1845, they were one of the most prolific and reputable manufacturers of silverware and trophies in the British Empire, holding Royal Warrants for several monarchs.
Pattern: Classical Loving Cup / Urn form. This is a standard ceremonial trophy design characterized by a deep bowl, flared rim, and double scrolled handles.
Type
Trophy/Cup
Maker
Walker & Hall (Sheffield, England). Established 1845, they were one of the most prolific and reputable manufacturers of silverware and trophies in the British Empire, holding Royal Warrants for several monarchs.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Features typical of high-quality English hollowware from the early 20th century.
Dimensions
Approximately 20-25cm in height. Estimated weight ranges from 400 to 600 grams based on typical proportions for a club-level memorial trophy.
Description
A stately George V sterling silver trophy cup of classic proportions. This piece serves as a historical document, recording the names of champions from 1918 to 1929. The early hallmarks confirm it was commissioned at the end of WWI, likely for a local athletic or social club. Its simple, elegant lines focus all attention on the honor roll of names, while the Sheffield hallmarks ensure lifelong quality.
Key Features
1918 hallmark date letter consistent with the first year of engraving. Walker & Hall maker's mark. Continuous chronological engraving of winners. Traditional Sheffield sterling standards.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Features typical of high-quality English hollowware from the early 20th century.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish with extensive historical engraving. The piece features a light rim and scrolled handles. The primary decoration consists of a list of annual winners engraved into the body from 1918 through 1929.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Full British Hallmarks: 'W&H' in a pennant (Walker & Hall maker's mark), Crown (Sheffield assay office), Lion Passant (Sterling purity), and Date Letter 'a' (1918).
Construction Details
Spun and raised body with cast handles. The handles are hand-soldered to the main vessel. The rim is likely finished with a hand-rolled or applied wire for structural rigidity.
Functional Features
Two-handled 'Loving Cup' design for ceremonial drinking or display. The wide bowl allows for high-visibility engraving of competition history.
Handle & Grip Details
Cast sterling silver double-scroll handles with thumb rests. Attached via silver soldering to the upper and mid-sections of the bowl. Ergonomically designed for two-handed presentation.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality commercial sterling production. The symmetry of the handles and the precision of the hallmark strikes indicate the superior quality controlled environments of the Walker & Hall Sheffield factory.
Authentication Indicators
Hallmarks are deep and legible. The sequence of date letter 'a' (1918) matches the start date of the engraving. Wear patterns on the handles are consistent with decades of use.
Origin & Manufacturing
Sheffield, England. Manufacturing center known as the heart of British silver and steel production, using a combination of semi-mechanized spinning and manual hand-finishing.
Era & Period
George V Period (early 20th Century). Stylistically Neoclassical revival, reflecting the traditionalist tastes of British sporting and social clubs post-WWI.
Age Estimate
Hallmarked for 1918. The engraving chronologically follows from 1918 to 1929, indicating it was in active use for over a decade.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Golden Age' of British amateur sports and social clubs. Such trophies were central to community life and served as symbols of continuity and prestige in the aftermath of the Great War.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. Displays moderate tarnish with characteristic purple/gold 'rainbow' patina. Surface contains micro-scratches consistent with cleaning and handling. No visible major dents or repairs.
Value Estimate
$600 - $900 USD. Value is driven by silver weight and the historical appeal of the engraving; however, 'social' trophies are generally valued close to their scrap weight plus a 20-30% premium for maker and history.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle hand-polishing with Wright's Silver Cream recommended. Avoid abrasive cloths that could thin the engraving over time. Store in a Pacific Silvercloth bag to prevent sulfide buildup.
Similar Pieces
Standard trophies by Elkington & Co. or Mappin & Webb. Differences often lie in handle flourishes and the weight of the silver used (gauge of the sheet metal).
Interesting Facts
The engraving shows 'NO CHAMPION' for years 1921 and 1927, possibly indicating cancellations of the event due to social unrest or funding issues during the inter-war period.