All About Antique Silver with International Hallmarks

This could be a useful introduction for beginning collectors of silver, and it does add a few marks not immediately available in other published sources (although readily available on the internet). But its tips for identifying and dating silver are based on generalizations that have many exceptions, and in several cases just flat-out wrong (e.g., it repeats the long-debunked myth that pre-19th-century spoons were made in two pieces and soldered together, and asserts that later ones were "cast" [they were actually stamped out in presses using pattern dies]. And while photographs are generally credited to their sources, the tables of marks are not. I'll keep it on my shelf, but I don't expect to use it often.

I bought this book as my first book about silver as I was starting to collect. I found it extremely useful in learning about identifying hallmarks and on the processes used to make silver and plate. I still use it as reference and still love it. Well written and informative.

My husband uses this book all the time.

Not scholarly at all. Just a fair pocket guide for beginners. It should have been titled "Some things to know about silver." Try finding information about Nuremberg Silver or Siversmiths in the book. JAG

Pictures were small, I needed to know the place of origin...they were not in good order...I would not recommend it unless you were very smart about silver and countries.

I have used this many times to understand the markings on Sterling pieces. It has not disappointed a single time.

I have found this book to be a surprisingly good resource. It's especially handy if you collect silver from different countries. The sections on hallmarks are wonderfully clear. I also appreciate the descriptions and illustrations of artistic historic periods represented in silver (Baroque, Rococo, etc.). Useful book and recommended for almost anyone into antiques in general and antique silver in particular.

I expected a book on how to price antique silver, but found so much more! This book covers everything from the history of silver itself to the different construction methods, artistic styles, and the numerous international hallmarks. I could not put it down. It has pictures and illustrations on almost every page, and the information is written in a clear concise style. As the author claims on the jacket of the book "After reading this book you will know more about silver than many of the people in the business" I am confident that I know a lot more than I did before this book, and I have a strong foundation to build on.Although this is a paperback, it is well made with solid bindings, and I am sure I will carry it with me on my trips to antique establishments here in New England. I look forward to her next book!

This is an excellent reference book for understanding silver hallmarks from around the world.Simple, factual, not verbose and very useful.Book was in excellent condition, and delivered promptly.