Expert: Martin G Roberts - 2/17/2009

Question
I found a small pewter cup or bowl with a stamp on the bottom "English Pewter", made in Sheffield, England. I haven't been able to find much info on it.  The second item I found is a small bonnet style dish with a handle and stamped with a F, Pilgrim, Solid pewter, F S Co,  2201. I am very new to reading hallmarks but would like a little info on these items, or where to look.  Thank you in advance for your time.

Answer
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Hello Kate,

Your cup is a modern product of the city of Sheffield, England, and could have been made by one of several possible firms. Such things are still in production, sold as souvenirs, giftware or decorative items.

The other piece is a 20th Century product of a New York company. As it is American and not antique, I cannot give any detail.

In general, if you find a piece that actually has the word "pewter" marked on it, then it will be 20th Century, not antique.

One of my bugbears is the use of 'hallmark' to mean any maker's marks. Hallmark refers to precious metal marks, specifically those applied to silver, gold and platinum in the UK. Anything else is a touchmark or just a mark.

Hope that helps.

Martin
www.antique-metalware.co.uk