www.925-1000.com

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

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

Great thanks Oel!

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

Thanks for the correction Bassett

See; http://www.925-1000.com/silverplate_G.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Regards,

Oel

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

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

Hello Basset,

Thanks for explaining! Much appreciated.

Oel

Yes thank you Basset - really interesting to know!