Expert: Barbara K. Acchino - 12/5/2010

Question
QUESTION: I have a silver thimble which I would like to identify. The pattern is a daisy like repeat and the markings are 12 and FW. I'm afraid I can't decipher the assay marks.
Any suggestions?

ANSWER: Hello Chris.  Please send a digital picture (you can attach to your question in this forum) so I can see the thimble and the marks.  Thanks, Barb


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QUESTION: Thanks for your reply. Will try to send image.

Chris

Answer
Hi Chris.  The number 12 indicates the size of the thimble.  FW stands for the maker, who was F. Webb of Birmingham.  The thimble was probably assayed in Birmingham so one of the tiny marks should be an anchor. It probably also has a full bodied profile view of a lion, which would indicate the thimble is sterling.  The third tiny mark would be a letter of the alphabet, either lower or upper case, which would indicate the exact year the thimble was made.  The thimble was probably made between 1887 and 1934, but you would know for sure by matching up the mark you see on your thimble with year marks for English silver.  You can search the web and find a number of different sites that will provide that kind of information.  If your marks need cleaning to be able to read them, take a soft bristled brush (like a toothbrush) and mild soap and water to wash them.  DO NOT use a "dipping" product such as tarnex as it will ruin the finish on the thimble.  Hope I've helped.  Barbara