New to the Forum...need help with marks

[divadonna]

Hello....
I am new to the art of deciphering silver marks. I think this spoon is sterling, Scottish, Edinburgh, with a George III duty stamp, and dated 1817. There are two makers marks. I believe one is Robert Smeaton and the other James & William Marshall. Why are there two marks? What am I missing? Any assistance or words of wisdom would be appreciated. Thanks in advance...Donna

[silvermakersmarks]

Welcome to the forum, Donna.

We often see what are apparently two makers' marks on Scottish silver from this period. The accepted explanation is that one is the the actual maker and the other is the retailer. Often the retailer's mark is the full surname in upper case letters but where the retailer had their own registered mark as a gold or silversmith that is what they used. In this case it is likely that Smeaton was the maker and Marshalls were the retailers.

Phil

[divadonna]

That makes so much sense! Thank you for the clear explanation. I am enjoying my new hobby and greatly appreciate all words of wisdom from those more knowledgeable than I. Happy Holidays!