Victorian sterling silver (1837–1901) is one of the most actively collected categories of antique British metalwork. Genuine pieces display strict hallmark sequences, period-correct decorative styles, and construction methods unique to 19th-century silversmiths. But the market also contains re-struck hallmarks, forged date letters, EPNS pieces sold as sterling, foreign imports masquerading as British silver, and mismatched maker/date combinations.
DJR Expert Guide Series, Vol. 436 — How to Authenticate Victorian Sterling Silver teaches a complete, professional hallmark-authentication workflow used by appraisers, collectors, and antique-silver specialists.
Inside, you’ll learn how experts:
Identify Victorian lion passant purity marks & distinguish genuine strikes
Decode maker’s marks, date letters, duty marks & assay-office symbols
Recognize hallmark sequences for London, Birmingham, Sheffield & Edinburgh
Distinguish sterling silver from electroplate, EPNS & lower-purity alloys
Detect re-struck, added or forged hallmarks and incorrect punch characteristics
Evaluate decorative styles across Early, Mid & Late Victorian periods
Identify authentic construction traits: repoussé, hand-chasing, solder seams, hammer work
Recognize modern cast reproductions & machine-engraved pieces
Assess wear patterns, patina, oxidation & hallmark reduction from polishing
Identify style-era mismatches and fake period engravings
Evaluate provenance, maker prestige, rarity & correct value structure
Know when high-value items require professional authentication
Whether you’re evaluating flatware, hollowware, jewelry, trays, tea services, candlesticks, desk objects or decorative silver, this guide provides the full forensic method needed to authenticate Victorian sterling accurately and confidently.
Digital Download — PDF • 8 Pages • Instant Access
Victorian sterling silver (1837–1901) is one of the most actively collected categories of antique British metalwork. Genuine pieces display strict hallmark sequences, period-correct decorative styles, and construction methods unique to 19th-century silversmiths. But the market also contains re-struck hallmarks, forged date letters, EPNS pieces sold as sterling, foreign imports masquerading as British silver, and mismatched maker/date combinations.
DJR Expert Guide Series, Vol. 436 — How to Authenticate Victorian Sterling Silver teaches a complete, professional hallmark-authentication workflow used by appraisers, collectors, and antique-silver specialists.
Inside, you’ll learn how experts:
Identify Victorian lion passant purity marks & distinguish genuine strikes
Decode maker’s marks, date letters, duty marks & assay-office symbols
Recognize hallmark sequences for London, Birmingham, Sheffield & Edinburgh
Distinguish sterling silver from electroplate, EPNS & lower-purity alloys
Detect re-struck, added or forged hallmarks and incorrect punch characteristics
Evaluate decorative styles across Early, Mid & Late Victorian periods
Identify authentic construction traits: repoussé, hand-chasing, solder seams, hammer work
Recognize modern cast reproductions & machine-engraved pieces
Assess wear patterns, patina, oxidation & hallmark reduction from polishing
Identify style-era mismatches and fake period engravings
Evaluate provenance, maker prestige, rarity & correct value structure
Know when high-value items require professional authentication
Whether you’re evaluating flatware, hollowware, jewelry, trays, tea services, candlesticks, desk objects or decorative silver, this guide provides the full forensic method needed to authenticate Victorian sterling accurately and confidently.
Digital Download — PDF • 8 Pages • Instant Access
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