What is the significance of pewter markings?

Answer by  Cecilia (2828)

I assume you're talking about markings on the underside. These would be makers' marks. You can find out which company made the piece, maybe even which artist. You should be careful about using old pewter with food as it contains lead. The more recent pewter is generally not as toxic. Use for decoration only.

Answer by  mannersandsuch (1796)

Each mark represents something about who made the piece of silver, their shop, artist and such. If you go to your local library or look online you might be able to find out about the silversmith and his shop. This is also a good way to date your pieces and find about their value.

Answer by  noey1958 (1405)

Usually the marks denote the maker and the date. If you can see them clearly you should research them on the internet. Some pewter is worth a great deal of money. Other pieces are not worth much at all. Pewter is a mixture of metals and is not worth anything by weight.

Answer by  Liz59 (10966)

This actually indicates the author's original signatures and or marks that they made. Often this style of marking was used in the 18th to 19th century. It could be worth a lot.

Answer by  Ginny (2251)

These are verification or makers' marks, usually added by the makers and also by capacity inspectors. They tell you the maker's name and area of origin. Depending upon the piece's origin, books cataloguing pewter marks, like the 1996 volume of Britain's "Ricketts" or "Pewter in America" 1971.