Rare Hudson’s Bay Trade Cross Shows Up in $25 Fast Opinion Submission

Every now and then, a submission to our $25 Online Fast Opinion service surprises even us. This week, a fascinating silver cross came in bearing all the hallmarks of the Hudson’s Bay Company trade era.

Here’s what we found:
✓ Eastern Woodland triple-barred cross form
✓ Two “HB” hallmarks stamped beneath a beaver, consistent with Hudson’s Bay Company marks
✓ “QUEBEC” city mark
✓ “JT” maker’s mark (likely 19th-century silversmith)
✓ Hand-engraved detailing
✓ Inset greenish-blue trade bead (likely antique glass)

Crosses like this were historically used in the North American fur trade, often exchanged with Indigenous groups in Quebec, Ontario, and surrounding regions.

Our Verdict:
The piece presents as likely authentic based on its hallmark structure, engraving method, style, and condition. While more testing and provenance documentation would be required for definitive authentication, it aligns with known historical examples.

Why it matters:
Trade silver like this represents more than metal—it’s a piece of history. And this is exactly why our $25 Fast Opinion exists.

Whether you’re sorting through heirlooms, listing online, or thinking about resale, don’t guess. Get real expert insight—fast.

Our Two Core Services:
✓ $25 Fast Opinion – For quick answers on authenticity or value
✓ $125 Full Appraisal or Authentication – Includes a full PDF report with market comps and formal review

Learn more or submit at djrpro.com/services