2004-05
The use of hallmarks on silver has a long history, dating back to at least the sixth century AD. A series or system of five marks has been found on Byzantine silver dating from this period, though interpretation of these marks is still not completely solved [1].
Hallmarking of European silver probably originated in France in the thirteenth century and spread from there to other countries. The French standard for silver quality was established in 1260, the first use of a town mark was established in 1275, the individual maker’s mark was introduced in 1355, and the date letter system introduced in 1427.
In England, the silver standard mark was established in 1300 followed by the introduction of a maker’s mark in 1363, the town mark in 1423 and the date letter mark in 1478 [2]. As the history and standards of hallmarking silver and gold objects from various countries is complex, it should be consulted on an individual basis.
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