Commemorative Sterling Silver Goblet with Royal Garter Motif, London 1981
Hollowware (Trophy/Cup/Goblet) · Unknown British Silversmith (Assayed in London)
Pattern: Commemorative Royal Wedding Issue (Charles and Diana, 1981)
Type
Hollowware (Trophy/Cup/Goblet)
Maker
Unknown British Silversmith (Assayed in London)
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 standard), solid construction with standard polishing.
Dimensions
Standard adult ceremonial goblet size, approximately 14-16 cm in height, estimated weight between 150-250 grams.
Description
A striking vintage sterling silver goblet featuring a bulbous bowl tapering to a slender stem and circular foot. The surface is prominently hand-engraved with the Order of the Garter belt enclosing the letter 'C', surmounted by a royal coronet, flanked by the text 'LONDON 1981' and a specific date reference ('July 29th'). This piece was likely crafted to celebrate the royal wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana, reflecting traditional British commemorative silver craftsmanship.
Key Features
Prominent hand-engraved Garter crest with coronet and initial 'C', clear 1981 London attribution, and classic goblet form.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 standard), solid construction with standard polishing.
Finish & Decoration
Hand-engraved royal heraldic motif featuring the Garter motto 'Honi Soit Qui Mal y Pense', a royal coronet, a central initial 'C', and the location 'LONDON 1981' alongside a date reference.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamps include 'LONDON', '1981', along with the deeply hand-engraved commemorative royal insignia. Official British assay office marks and maker's sponsor marks are likely located on the rim or base foot.
Construction Details
Formed by spun or raised bowl and foot, joined to a cast or turned central stem with soldered joints.
Functional Features
Ceremonial drinking vessel or commemorative display piece with a deep bowl and stable pedestal base.
Handle & Grip Details
Stemware style with a smooth, tapered cylindrical stem and a wide circular foot for balance; no handle.
Craftsmanship Details
Combines traditional hollowware raising/spinning techniques with crisp hand-engraving of complex heraldic symbols.
Authentication Indicators
Engraving style, period typography, and London assay markers are consistent with commemorative pieces produced for the 1981 royal wedding. Professional XRF testing is recommended for absolute metal verification.
Origin & Manufacturing
London, United Kingdom, produced to commemorate the 1981 royal wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century (Modern Commemorative, 1981)
Age Estimate
Dated 1981 based on explicit engraving
Cultural Significance
Reflects the deep British tradition of marking major royal milestones through precious metal commemorative objects, blending heraldic tradition with modern craftsmanship.
Condition Notes
Very Good vintage condition. Shows minor surface hairline scratching and natural tarnish consistent with age and display, but structurally sound with no deep dents or major repairs.
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges between $150 and $350 USD, depending on exact silver weight, maker identity, and original presentation packaging.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a specialized silver polishing cream and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive pads. Store in an anti-tarnish cloth or bag in a low-humidity environment.
Similar Pieces
Various 1981 silver commemorative cups, tankards, and goblets produced by British silversmiths such as Garrard & Co or Roberts & Belk.
Interesting Facts
Created for the historic 1981 wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer, which drew a global television audience of over 750 million people, inspiring a vast array of commemorative silver and ceramics.