EPNS and G*48 / Dated Silverware / English

Item Description

This is a matching set of three antique English silver serving utensils (two serving forks and one serving spoon), each approximately 10 inches in length. The utensils display classic Georgian-style handles and are housed in a framed display with a mirror and gold-trimmed border.

Materials & Markings

• Medium: Sterling silver (.925) — confirmed by the “lion passant” hallmark.
• Hallmarks (per close-up images):
  • “G S” or “S G” in a diamond: Likely a maker’s mark.
  • Lion passant: Indicates sterling silver (.925 purity) in England.
  • Leopard's head: Denotes the London Assay Office.
  • Date Letter: One appears to be a Gothic-style “h”, possibly for the year 1903, and the other may be a different year. These letters correspond to the cycle used by the London Assay Office.
  • Queen’s head duty mark (present on one handle): Indicates pre-1890s British silver, showing tax was paid to the Crown.
  • Mark “EPNS” (Electro Plated Nickel Silver) on one of the pieces suggests that at least one is not solid silver, but rather silver-plated.

Condition

• Overall: Good antique condition.
• Wear: Moderate surface wear consistent with age and use. Tarnishing and patina visible, which is expected for unpolished silver.
• Framing: Professionally mounted for display. No visible damage to the mirrored frame.

Authentication & Maker

Based on the hallmarks visible in the images:

• These appear to be authentic British sterling silver, with one piece possibly being silver-plated (EPNS).
• The variation in hallmarks (especially the EPNS vs. 925) may indicate the set was assembled from different, but stylistically similar, pieces—this was common in early to mid-20th-century displays for decorative or commemorative purposes.
• The weight of 70g per utensil supports authenticity for the sterling pieces, but the total weight should be verified individually to confirm which are solid silver vs. plated.

Estimated Value (as of 2025)

Component

Estimated Value (USD)

Sterling Fork #1

$80–$120

Sterling Spoon

$70–$100

EPNS Fork

$20–$30

Total Estimate

$170–$250 (retail)

If all three were confirmed sterling silver and from the same silversmith and year, the estimate would be $250–$325depending on maker and market demand.

Historical Context

The presence of the Queen’s duty mark and London Assay stamps situates these items in the Victorian to Edwardianera, likely made between the late 1800s and early 1900s. These serving pieces were commonly used in formal English dining settings and are now desirable among collectors of antique British silverware.

Recommendations

• Professional Appraisal: Recommended if the set is to be insured or sold as authentic antique silverware. Appraiser should examine the silver content (acid test or XRF scan) and confirm the maker.
• Preservation: Keep stored away from moisture; consider having the pieces lightly polished by a silver professional.
• Display Note: If any item is EPNS, label it to avoid misrepresentation during resale.