Unknown hallmarks on teaset

lotus · Post by **lotus** » Wed May 31, 2006 11:15 pm

Hi
A complete newbie here, I need help identifying these hallmarks.This is a 3 piece teaset, consisting of creamer, sugar pot (uncovered but with a handle from end to end, like a pail) and cofee pot. Not sure if this is sterling or plate, so I don't quite know where to put this post. I searched this site and the web for hours to no avail. I am hoping someone more knowlegeable can help me. I couldn't figure out how to post images but I included a link to my webspace where an image could be seen. I hope this is acceptable, if not, I'm sorry moderator, please show me the correct way!
Thanks

Post by **2209patrick** » Fri Jun 02, 2006 12:33 am

The mark in your picture was used by the Forbes Silver Company, Meriden, Connecticut, on silverplated holloware. Organized in 1894 as a department of the Meriden Britannia Company. Became part of the International Silver Company in 1898.

lotus · Post by **lotus** » Fri Jun 02, 2006 9:42 am

Thank you so much for your help Patrick. I am becoming totally fascinated by hallmarks, can you recommend some good books, other than Tardys, which I already know about?
Thanks

Post by **2209patrick** » Fri Jun 02, 2006 2:29 pm

You are welcome. A good book to start out with is Dorothy Rainwater's " Encyclopedia of American Silver Manufacturers". Many people prefer the 4th edition, it has more 19th century marks. The 5th edition has modern marks not in the 4th. I bought them both.
As far as English marks go, maybe some of our British posters can offer some ideas.
Pat.