Question:
Antiques: Anyone understand English pewter marks?
I have an attractive small pewter tankard with engraved patterns on the outside and the word Nelson on it, opposite the handle. It looks to be mid-19th century but I'd like to be sure.
On the base, stamped in and as small as silver marks, there are initials "HW" inside a shield, and then four letters in heavy 'gothic' style which could be 'TDBM' or 'FDBM'. The 'B' looks like the number '16'. These four symbols are inside little squarish borders with the corners nipped off.
The whole thing stands just over 3 inches (8 cm) high, and looks and feels quite nice. The metal is not completely uniform in colour - looks more silvery underneath, which is why I wonder if it is more modern than it seems, some sort of fake.
Any guidance welcome. I have somewhere got a book of pewter marks but cannot find it, and the library is closed for Easter.
Thanks.
Best Answer - Chosen by Asker:
I think if you did some key words on the Internet you would get helpful guidance.
It sounds like a lovely piece.
I am sorry I missed your Easter deadline.
I would not let go of this piece until I was SURE what I have.