Silver Hallmarks UK: How to Identify Real Silver (Complete Guide)
- Sell Silver Online
- Mar 4
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 25
A silver hallmark is a small stamped marking found on genuine silver items. It acts as an official guarantee of the metal’s purity.
In the UK, hallmarking has been a legal requirement for centuries, making it one of the most reliable ways to confirm real silver.
👉 If your item has a hallmark, it’s a strong sign that it contains genuine silver.
Common UK Silver Hallmarks Explained
UK silver hallmarks usually include a combination of symbols. Here are the most important ones to look for:
1. Purity Mark (e.g. 925)
This is the most important stamp.
925Â = Sterling silver (92.5% pure silver)
958Â = Britannia silver (95.8% pure)
800Â = Lower purity silver
👉 The higher the number, the more silver content—and usually, the higher the value.
2. The Lion Passant
A lion walking symbol is a traditional British hallmark.
👉 It confirms the item is sterling silver (925).
3. Assay Office Mark
This shows where the item was tested and certified.
Examples include:
London (leopard head)
Birmingham (anchor)
Sheffield (rose)
4. Date Letter
A letter stamp indicates the year the item was hallmarked.
This can help identify the age of your silver.
Where to Find Silver Hallmarks
Hallmarks are usually very small, so you may need a magnifying glass.
Common places to check:
Inside rings
On clasps of necklaces
Underside of cutlery
Bottom of silverware
👉 If you can’t find a hallmark, it doesn’t always mean the item isn’t silver—but it does require further testing.
How to Identify Real Silver Using Hallmarks
To check if your item is real silver:
Look for a 925 or similar purity mark
Check for a lion passant or assay mark
Examine the stamp closely (real hallmarks are crisp, not blurry)
👉 If multiple marks are present, it’s a strong indication your item is genuine.
What If There Is No Hallmark?
Some silver items may not have a hallmark, especially if they are:
Very old
Imported
Small or lightweight
In these cases, professional testing may be needed to confirm authenticity.
Do Hallmarks Affect the Value of Silver?
Yes—hallmarks can significantly impact value.
They help:
Confirm authenticity
Show purity level
Increase buyer confidence
👉 Items with clear hallmarks are generally easier to sell and may achieve better prices.
What Types of Hallmarked Silver Can You Sell?
If your item is hallmarked, you can usually sell it, including:
Jewellery
Coins
Cutlery
Antique silverware
Even broken items still have value based on their silver content.
Sell Hallmarked Silver in the UK
If you’ve identified hallmarks on your items, you may be able to sell your silver online in the UK quickly and easily.
With our service, you can:
Get a free valuation
Send your items securely
Receive fast payment
👉 It’s a simple way to turn unused silver into cash.
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