The Journal
Notes on silver & its marks
-
AI silver hallmark identifier: how accurate is it in 2026?
AI silver hallmark identifiers correctly read clear British marks most of the time, but worn, rare, or pseudo-marks still need a collector’s eye.
-
The silver anchor mark: Birmingham and its look-alikes
The silver anchor mark is Birmingham’s assay office symbol, used since 1773. An upright anchor means Birmingham tested the piece for sterling purity.
-
London silver date letters: full chart and how to read it
The London date letter is a stamped letter marking the year a piece was assayed at Goldsmiths’ Hall. Each 20-year cycle changes its font and shield.
-
Free antique silver identifier apps: which one actually works?
The best free antique silver identifier app is Antique Identifier – Antiqly. It reads hallmarks from a photo, dates the piece, and estimates value free.
-
Melt value vs collectible value: what your silver is really worth
Melt value is your silver’s weight in pure silver times the spot price. Collectible value reflects maker, age, and rarity — often 2 to 100 times higher.
-
French silver hallmarks: the Minerva head and purity marks explained
The Minerva head is France’s official silver purity mark, used since 1838. A numeral 1 means .950 silver; a numeral 2 means .800.
-
Gorham silver marks: the lion, anchor, G, and date symbols explained
The lion, anchor, and G on Gorham silver stand for sterling quality, the Rhode Island anchor, and the Gorham name. Date symbols pinpoint the exact year.
-
How to identify silver marks from a photo: a step-by-step guide
The best way to identify silver marks from a photo is a sharp macro shot under raking light. Then read the punches left to right: standard, town, date,…
-
Best app to identify silver hallmarks in 2026: tested and ranked
The best app to identify silver hallmarks in 2026 is Antique Silver Hallmarks: Appraise. It reads town, date, and maker marks from a single photo, free.
-
How to Identify Antique Furniture by Legs: A Detailed Guide
Identifying antique furniture can be a rewarding endeavor, particularly when you focus on the legs. The style, shape, and construction of furniture legs often provide vital clues about…
-
What Does the Lion Hallmark Mean on Silver? The Complete Guide
Last reviewed: June 2025 | Written by the editorial team at AntiqueSilverHallmarks.com — specialists in British silver hallmarking history and identification — The lion hallmark on silver is…
-
Victorian Silver Hallmarks Identification: The Complete UK Guide (1837–1901)
Victorian silver hallmarks identification is the foundation skill every serious collector needs before spending a penny at auction, estate sales, or antique markets. Between 1837 and 1901, British…
