British Silver Hallmarks

The Renaissance and Reformation covers the years 1525 – 1603. Henry VIII was king, starting in 1509. This was a period of religious turmoil. The period continues through until the death of Queen Elizabeth I in 1603.

1603 saw the end of the Tudor line to hold the British throne with the death of Elizabeth I and the start of the Stuarts with James VI of Scotland succeeding Elizabeth and becoming James I of England.
Although Scotland and England now had the same monarch both countries remained separate. James wanted to unite them as Great Britain but English opposition frustrated his plans.

The Protectorate headed by Cromwell broke down in 1659 and it was decided to restore the monarchy. Charles II came to the throne in 1600. This is where the term Restoration originates in regard to British history.

At this time London was the largest and wealthiest city in Europe and also a major port. Traders and manufacturers were extending their activities in Europe, America, Africa and Asia. Foreign visitors and returning exiles brought new ideas to England.

This period includes the final years of the reign of William III (1695-1702) and that of Queen Anne (1702-1714) and part of the reign of George I (1714-1727).

Sir Thomas Gresham recommended that the coinage be restored to the sterling standard in 1560. This was for a matter of convenience to allow the mint to convert silver into coins without having to refine or alloy the metal to another standard. This was kept in place until the 1920 Coinage Act.

The 1720's and early 30's are characterised by flat chasing of ornamental borders that give way to elaborate patterns of interlacing and curving lines as the 30's progress and continue to the extravagant rococo ornamentation of complex scrolls, leave, flowers and shells.

The Rococo originated in France. Some objects became highly decorated with rounded shapes, mainly taken from nature. Sea shells, clouds, flowers and foliage being popular. In Europe the style was embraced and became very popular. In Britain this it was more sparingly used. 

Improved manufacturing techniques continued during the 1700's and more competition to London as the prime place of silver manufacture is evident. Birmingham and Sheffield being such centres.

In the early 1740's, Thomas Boulsover from Sheffield, discovered the technique of silver plating by fusing a thin sheet of silver to a thicker one of copper. This produced a product much cheaper than sterling silver but still of fine quality and appearance.

The Regency Period of British history is approximately between 1790 to 1820, fitting between the Georgian and Victorian periods.

The Regency Period is known for over indulgence and pleasure seeking. It cover a period where the Brighton Pavilion and British Museum were built. In 1815 Great Britain was regarded as the most powerful country in the world and London the greatest city.