London date letter

[Hose_dk]

I know that I ought to be able to read yearmark. But I am sorry to say that I have enormous difficulties in stating the difference. Take this yeamark is it 1787/88 or is it 1827/28. Can someone give me a clue how I best determine?
But first of all is this 87/88 or 27/28?
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[dognose]

Hi Hose,

It's 1827/28. In this case the easiest way to determine the date is that Lion has lost his crown, this occured in 1821.

Regards Trev.

[Hose_dk]

Hi Trev
Thanks - the crown yes, that is a good first indicator.
The tax mark was no help in this case, but the missing crown over the head should have told me.

I often have this because the shape is difficuld to see exact the small differencies have disappered over the years. I dont have much silver in this category (carrying Lion passant) - I also suspect that it is also a reason for my confusion. Could be that I should stick to mainland Europe.
So thanks again.