Help idenifying hallmark

[cmac76]

I recently was given a silver tea service from my aunt. I think it is dated back to the early 1900's I'm having a very hard time identifying the hallmarks on 2 pieces. I've discovered the tea set is silver buy the lion hallmark but the tray only has a Sheffield Hallmark with what looks like a pineapple. I'm not sure if the tray is plated. I've searched high and low. please help

[dognose]

Hi,

Welcome to the Forum.

I'm afraid my answer may disappoint you. Neither of the marks shown are hallmarks, only plater's marks.

The 'Lion' is in fact a Griffon, it's one of the many marks used by the Barbour Silver Co., see: http://www.925-1000.com/silverplate_B.html

The pineapple is the mark of Ellis-Barker Silver Co., see: http://www.925-1000.com/silverplate_E.html

Trev.

[cmac76]

Thank you for the information. I guess that's why I was having such a hard time finding it. I guess I'm a little disappointed that they are not solid stirling silver but the will be kept in the family. Any idea on the dates so when I pass them down i can give them some history?

[dognose]

Your original thoughts on the date of early 1900's seems good to me, although the Ellis-Barker piece looks a little later.

Trev.