Simple Explanation of Hallmarks on Silver Items
Apr 16, 2023
{
"Title": "Simple Explanation of Hallmarks on Silver Items: Understanding 925 and Sterling Marks",
"Date": "04/16/23",
"Content": "
Understanding Silver Hallmarks for Everyday Sellers
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When you come across old flatware, jewelry, serving pieces, or coins, the small stamped symbols or numbers may seem confusing at first. These marks, called hallmarks, are the key to knowing whether an item is truly silver or just plated. If you are planning to sell or recycle silver items, learning to read hallmarks is the first and most important step toward determining their value.
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What Are Silver Hallmarks?
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A hallmark is an officially stamped or engraved marking on a silver item that gives information about its purity, sometimes including where or when it was assayed. In everyday U.S. and European goods, purity marks and words like \"sterling\" are the most common and immediately useful to the average seller.
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Common Silver Hallmarks and What They Mean
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Mark | Meaning |
|---|---|
925 | 92.5% pure silver (standard modern sterling silver) |
Sterling | Usually means 92.5% silver, especially in U.S. made items |
800, 835, 900 | Common continental European marks for 80%, 83.5%, or 90% silver content |
Coin Silver | Older American silver standard, about 900 purity (90%) |
EPNS, EP, or Silverplate | Electroplated nickel silver, not solid silver—mostly base metal with a thin silver coating |
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How to Spot Silver vs Plated Items
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Not all hallmarks refer to genuine silver. A careful look is required:
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Look for numbers: A clear \"925\" or higher number typically means solid silver.
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Check words: \"Sterling\" means silver, \"Plate\" means non-silver core with a coating.
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Magnet test: Real silver is not magnetic. Strong attraction to a magnet means the item is not silver, though some steel reinforcements may confuse results.
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Wear and scratches: If you see yellowish or brassy metal showing through beneath silver-colored areas, it is silver-plated.
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Step-by-Step: Identifying Silver Items
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Locate the mark: Inspect the underside or back of flatware, inside jewelry bands, or the rim of serving pieces with a magnifying glass if needed.
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Record the hallmark: Write down \"925,\" \"Sterling,\" \"800,\" etc. Photographing the stamp can help.
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Cross-check: Use trustworthy hallmark guides from neutral sources. For example, the U.S. Mint site provides coin silver content information.
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Separate plated from solid: Split your items into two groups—those with reliable silver marks and those with questionable plating marks.
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From Hallmarks to Value
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Once you know the purity from the hallmark, you can start estimating value:
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Weigh in grams: Use a small digital kitchen or jewelry scale for accuracy. Reliable reference from NIST explains weight standards.
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Calculate silver content: Multiply the item's weight by purity percentage. Example: A 100g spoon stamped \"925\" contains about 92.5g of silver.
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Melt value vs resale value: Melt value is based purely on silver content, but certain antique or branded items may sell for more if kept intact.
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Packaging and Mailing Silver for Appraisal
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If you decide to sell your silver, safe handling and shipping are critical:
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Wrap each item in soft padding to avoid scratches or breakage.
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Bundle small pieces together in a labeled pouch.
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Use a sturdy box, never just an envelope.
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Ship with fully tracked and insured options. See USPS Registered Mail insurance for details on coverage.
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Some services provide a prepaid secure mailer kit with insurance and tracking numbers, making the process straightforward.
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Common Testing Methods You May See
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Reputable buyers test items to confirm the hallmark. Expect one or more of these methods:
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Electronic tester: Measures conductivity of the metal.
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Acid test: A small scratch tested with acid to verify silver content.
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XRF machine: Non-destructive spectrometer that reads alloy content precisely.
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Payment Options Explained
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Once silver is appraised, you can typically choose from modern fast-payment methods:
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PayPal/Venmo: Fast, widely used, small fees may apply.
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Zelle: Direct to bank account, quick, usually no fees.
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Cash App: Phone-based app, fast and convenient, limits may apply.
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ACH transfer: Secure bank-to-bank, may take 1–2 days.
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Check: Paper option for those who prefer traditional payments.
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Safety, Records, and Peace of Mind
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Photograph items: Keep photos of each piece and its hallmark for records.
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Take notes: Record weights, marks, and groupings in a simple spreadsheet or notebook.
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Consider tools: A neutral option such as GavelBase can help you keep digital records neatly organized.
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Quick Checklist for Silver Hallmarks
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✓ Find stamp or hallmark
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✓ Record purity (925, Sterling, 800, etc.)
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✓ Separate plated versus solid silver
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✓ Weigh in grams to estimate silver content
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✓ Research melt vs collectible value
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✓ Pack securely and use insured tracked shipping
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✓ Keep photos and notes for peace of mind
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✓ Choose the payment method that suits you best
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FAQs
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Q: Is all 925 silver worth the same?
A: The silver content is the same, but finished pieces or branded jewelry may carry higher value beyond the melt price.
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Q: Does “Sterling” always mean pure silver?
A: It generally means 92.5% silver, but always double check with a test if unsure.
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Q: If my flatware says EPNS, can I sell it as silver?
A: No, EPNS is plated. It has only a thin layer of silver over base metal.
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Q: Should I try removing stones or non-silver parts from jewelry?
A: Only remove what is easily done without damage. Otherwise leave it for professionals to handle safely.
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"Summary": "This guide explains how to read silver hallmarks such as 925