www.925-1000.com

Hi. I understand the hallmark with a lion couchant and VH is for Apollo silverplate made in Paris. What does the number stamped below the lion (i.e. 60 or 80) represent? I understand the number stamped on the opposite side of the spoon bowl or face of the fork (or whatever) is for the amount (in grams) of silver used to plate the item. How does Christofle factor in? Did (do) they own the company in the early 1900's? What is the silver plated over in their cutlery?

Hi,

Welcome to the Forum.

The number struck below the lion, I myself have only noted '84', is the amount of silver deposited on a set number of pieces. This article explains all:
http://www.925-1000.com/a_platenumbers.html

As far as the material used as the base for silver plating, it's usually a copper/nickel/zinc alloy with all companies tweaking the percentages or making small additions as per their preference as to what they consider ideal for the best product.

I'm not aware of any connection with Christofle, perhaps this is something you can tell us something about? I am aware that Apollo were later acquired by Francois Frionnet, the lion mark being retained, but the 'VH' replaced by 'FF'.

The marks mentioned are of course not hallmarks, but maker's marks only.

Trev.

Thank you, dognose. Say hello to England for me.