Symbols for where it was made include an anchor for Birmingham and a crown for Sheffield (in 1975, it changed to a rose). Another mark is the head of the reigning monarch. And a letter stamp tells you when it was made: Each year is assigned one letter of the alphabet, and a new cycle starts with a different font.

What does the Anchor symbol mean on silver?

On English silver, a walking lion, or lion passant as it is called, indicates that an object is sterling; the anchor is the symbol of the city of Birmingham.

What does 800 silver mark mean?

800 silver refers to a silver alloy that is 80% pure. Therefore, 999 fineness or higher is virtually pure silver, and 500 fineness 50% pure. 800 silver then refers to a silver alloy composed of 80% pure silver and 20% made up by another metal or metals.

Is silver marked 800 worth anything?

Modern silver items are worth less if they are 800 or 835 rather than 925. However, if it is a well-made piece, the differences are very slight. As has been the practice for hundreds of years, all silver is marked with either a hallmark, number or inscription.

How can you tell 800 silver?

The number 800 refers to its level of purity, and it means that your silver item is 80% silver and 20% alloy. This number system is an easy way to tell an items purity. Another example is 900 silver which is equal to 90% silver.