Thanks to the unique hallmarking system, it is possible to tell when, where, by whom, and with what quality of metal most pieces of silver and Sheffield plate were made. This compact, pocket-sized guide from Miller’s shows how to decipher this system, and to read the history behind the marks. A full introduction explains how to understand the marks and distinguish between silver, plate, and electroplate, followed by a look at all the marks of the major British, Irish, and American assay guilds. The pages are packed with lists of key manufacturers, designers, and patterns, and are supported by detailed glossaries. Full color photographs throughout of sample silverware and marks help to date and authenticate pieces.

Marks are one of the collector's most important tools when it comes to identifying and dating antiques. Of course, it is important to understand that they should never be relied upon completely, as many have been copied or faked. What you should rely on is experience. Handle as many antiques as you can and learn to combine your knowledge of marks with the knowledge of how an authentic piece looks and feels. Whether you are buying at auction, flea market or antique shop this is the book you need to identify and date what you find. More than 6,000 marks are organized for quick, at-a-glance reference with full-colour sections on silver, Sheffield plate, bronze figures, ceramics, glass, costume jewellery, toys and dolls. This comprehensive guide can be kept handy to identify antique finds and valuate them from a catalogue of the most common marks that you will encounter, as well as any unidentified treasures you already own.

Designed as the essential reference tool for appraisers, collectors and dealers of silverware, the Encyclopedia is an indispensable guide for anyone researching silver hallmarks, offering clear and wide-ranging reproductions of thousands of hallmarks from more than 60 countries and regions, past and present, on every continent. It is also clearly and logically organized into two volumes for ease of reference: in the first volume are hallmarks listed by visual type and category, fully cross-referenced to information in the second volume on country of origin (in order of importance), centre of assaying or making, date and silver standard marks, special marks such as import/export marks, and selected maker's marks. Vetted by an international team of experts, the Encyclopedia thus helps you to identify silver hallmarks quickly, easily and reliably. It also includes brief historical overviews of hallmarking in each country, a description of the hallmarking process, and a guide to identifying fake and forged marks. Practical, comprehensive and up to date, Miller's Encyclopedia of World Silver Marks is an invaluable aid to identifying silverware from around the world.

Over the past decade the Metal Unit of the Material Culture Section, Archaeology Research Division, Canadian Parks Service, has maintained a reference file identifying marks found on metal artifacts. This document is a selection of marks on file that relate primarily to tableware items, from the late 18th century to about 1900.