Hallmarking has been a legal requirement in Britain for over 700 years. Silver has always been a popular choice of material for producing decorative objects and the marks help identify the type and proportion of precious metal used in manufactured items, including jewellery, antique silver and objects, bringing with them a reassurance to the buyer that their purchase is of the highest “standard” and quality.
Silver hallmarks also reveal the maker of an object and the date it was made, as well as the Assay Office where it was classified. As with any collection area, certain makers are highly desirable and command huge sums at auction.
Silver plating was introduced in the 18th and 19th centuries, aided by advances in technology, and as such items of silver plate are considered more affordable, but still, with the right maker's mark, can command huge sums.
Sworders consigns and sells silver from all periods in specialist sales throughout the year. Antique silver is typically consigned to quarterly Fine Interiors auctions, with modern and contemporary pieces entered for sale in Design auctions, held three times a year. The more modestly priced items will feature in fortnightly Homes and Interiors sales.
To find out more about our forthcoming sales, or to talk further about potential consignments, please do not hesitate to contact a member of our specialist team.
Our specialists hold regular valuation days. Please contact us for more information, or complete the online form to enquire about the valuation of your items.
Want to know how much your items of Silver may be worth? Fill out our easy to use form and a member of the team will be in touch with free advice shortly.
When conducting the valuation of the late John and Collette Lewington's ceramics, we discovered a remarkable Dame Lucie Rie bowl hidden behind assorted cups. Initially estimated at £8,000-12,000, it sold for £32,500. This piece exemplifies Rie's iconic style, reflecting her journey from Austria to becoming a renowned figure in studio ceramics.
10 July 2024
Sworders are thrilled to have several works from one of Vistosi’s finest collaborators – Ettore Sottsass in our 9 July Design Auction. The man who established the Memphis Group, worked with several glassworks, including the famed Venini works.
4 July 2024
With over 300 lots, our July catalogue offers a great variety and something for everyone. Ahead of the sale, our team has chosen their favourites from the selection, which spans the Aesthetic Period to Contemporary Design.
27 June 2024
