Expert: Martin G Roberts - 1/1/2005

Question
I have several pewter plates.  2 of them have the same marks on them and I was able to find some information on them in a pewter book.  The marks are Townsend & Compton (with a dove? above some 4 legged animal) and Made in London (with a crown and a flower that might be a rose) They also bear 4 other marks (hallmarks?) identified in the same book that look like a house, crossroads, lion and T&C.  According to the book they are early 19th century.  My question is, are these worth anything?  If there is other information about them that would help please let me know.  They are approx 8.25 inches or 21 cm in size.

Answer
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All the information you have is correct. The small marks are usually called 'hallmarks', but they do not carry the significance of silver hallmarks. Townsend & Compton exported enormous amounts of pewter to North America, so these are quite common pieces. In good condition, they might be worth $120 each. Your other plates, if not marked or with worn marks, are worth considerably less.

Hope that helps

Martin
www.antique-metalware.co.uk