Old Telescoping Candlesticks - Sterling or Silverplate

[pauline5555]

Just acquired these candlesticks. I think they are George III and date early 1800s, but not positive. Anyway they telescope and can be 3 different sizes. The only hallmark they have has been completely rubbed as you can see in pic. Wondering if they could be sterling. There is a lot of wear from polishing near ribbed areas but no change at all in metal. Does anyone know where they might be from and exactly when.
Thanks

http://i33.tinypic.com/28vf4wp.jpg

[pauline5555]

Hi-
Just a quick addition. Took the candlesticks to my scrapper today and tested with nitric acid. He claims they are sterling, not silverplate which I was thinking. Still have no idea about the mark. Wondering if anyone might have any thoughts. Thinking they are original from late late 18th to early 19th century.
Thanks

[paulh]

Hello Pauline,

I think if you look closely at the mark it says"PATENT".

Paul.