1773 london assay?

[Paul Tomaszewski]

Hello all, new guy. I recently purchased a sword cane with gold plated sterling fittings. It was described as an 19th century work, but my review of the markings dates this to 1773. Can photos be posted here?

[dognose]

Hi Paul

Welcome to the Forum.

We look forward to seeing the images.

The below should help you:

How to Add Images

Posting Requirements

https://postimages.org (choose 'Share', then copy the 'Hotlink for forums' code) is recommended. Do not use Photobucket or Dropbox.

Ensure your images are embedded. Do not post links. Remember to use the 'Preview' button before submitting your post.

For more information see:

http://www.925-1000.com/forum/viewtopic ... 82#p103282

Give some time to creating your posts and we'll give some time to researching and answering them.

Trev.

[Paul Tomaszewski]

[Sasropakis]

Yes, that appears to be London 1773. The date letter "S" is similar to 1873 and 1933 but the hallmarks don't include a duty mark (soveraign's head) which was used from 1784 until late 19th century and the town mark of London, leopard's head, has a crown which was removed in 1821 so this leaves 1773 the only option. See https://www.silvermakersmarks.co.uk/Dat ... s%20S.html. And the style is also appropriate for the 18th century.

[dognose]

Hi Paul,

What makes you think it's gold-plated? Rather than 22ct. gold.

Trev.

[Paul Tomaszewski]

Trev,

Here is the auction description: "Fine 19th century English gilt sterling silver and wood sword cane with fancy engraved blade. Hallmarks of London". It would then appear they only got the year wrong, as there is wear around the top edge showing a silver color below.

Paul

[dognose]

Ah, I wondered as at this date the hallmarks for gold and silver were the same.

Trev.