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Help Identify French Hallmark Argent Fin And Other Mark

Posted: Tue May 18, 2021 4:41 pm
by ADRIANOS2017
hello good people. I have an Sterling Silver pocket watch made in France most probably, and i cant identify the hallmark, beside of that is writen on the bottom of the inside case ARGENT FIN. Il attach few photos here. Thanks in Advance !! Also ARGENT FIN is Sterling Silver???

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Re: Help Identify French Hallmark Argent Fin And Other Mark

Posted: Tue May 18, 2021 5:32 pm
by AG2012
Hi,
The crab mark was used after 1838 to guarantee minimum 800 fineness (minimum 80% of pure silver in the alloy).
It was used for small articles.
Maker`s mark is in lozenge but initials are difficult to decipher (LF ?).
``Fine silver`` is meant for commercial promotion.
Sterling is one of many silver standards (925 or 92.5% pure silver in the alloy).
One of French standards was lower than sterling, being 800, another standard was higher than sterling (i.e. 950).

Regards

Re: Help Identify French Hallmark Argent Fin And Other Mark

Posted: Tue May 18, 2021 5:36 pm
by ADRIANOS2017
Thank you very much Sir !!!! All the best !!!!