Prussian mark

Post by **admin** » Tue Feb 05, 2008 1:24 pm

Found this mark on a ladle, it bears the "FW" Friedrich Wilhelm tax mark found on Prussian silver in the early 19th century, maker's mark reads - Nagel and a zigzag assayer's test mark. I am wondering if the eagle denotes a specific city?
Thanks, Tom

Bahner · Post by **Bahner** » Tue Feb 05, 2008 3:00 pm

Hello, the eagle with a helmet is the city mark of Prenzlau near Potsdam. Nagel is Johann August Nagel, born 1750, active in Prenzlau since 1775, died 1809. Since 1803 he was also a member of the Berlin guild. Best wishes, Bahner

Post by **admin** » Tue Feb 05, 2008 3:41 pm

Hi Bahner,
Many thanks for the ID. If I understand correctly, the blotch to the right of the eagle head is a helmet plume or feather?

Regards, Tom

Bahner · Post by **Bahner** » Wed Feb 06, 2008 3:07 am

Hello, according to Scheffler this is a "Spangenhelm" - don't ask what this is, probably a helmet made from parallel strips of material. This is not obvious in the marks as punched, but can be clearly seen in the coat of arms of Prenzlau. Best wishes, Bahner

Post by **admin** » Thu Feb 07, 2008 2:55 pm

Thanks Bahner,
I've added the mark and the crest to the German page, hopefully I'll acquire a more defined mark image in the future.
Regards, Tom