Large silver spoon

[katie]

Hi,

I have a large spoon (13 inches long) which I believe is sterling silver. It was used on a farm for many years and then found and rescued by my granny. I now have the spoon and wanted to identify the marks. I've looked on various parts of the website but with no luck.

Really appreciate your help,
Katie

[oel]

Hi Katie,

Welcome to the forum.
Silver plate marks (symbols) could be used by;
George Richmond Collis & Company, Birmingham, England,
c.1840 - 1893.
The base material a non silver white metal alloy


Regards,

Oel

[katie]

Great thanks Oel!

[SirWatkynBassett]

Hello,

The mark is that of Robert Gainsford of Eyre Street, Sheffield.

The second mark is the likeness of an 'Elephant's Head', the trade mark of Gainsford.

Bassett

[oel]

Thanks for the correction Bassett

See; http://www.925-1000.com/silverplate_G.html

Regards,

Oel

[katie]

Thanks to you both - I can see that matches perfectly :)

[SirWatkynBassett]

Hello Katie and Oel,

Gainsford's mark is one of the more unusual plater's marks, in so much as the marks actually mean something. From left to right, 1,the pelt or hide mark, a common mark struck by the platers to indicate a covering skin of silver. 2, the 'Elephant's Head', Gainsford's trade mark. 3, the crown mark indicating Sheffield manufacture, 4, a gothic 'G' for Gainsford.

Bassett

[oel]

Hello Basset,

Thanks for explaining! Much appreciated.

Oel

[katie]

Yes thank you Basset - really interesting to know!