FIRST published in 1927 and constantly updated, this is the latest version of the pocket-size guide to British and Irish silver, gold and to platinum hallmarks from 1544 to 2005 and to Old Sheffield Plate makers’ marks from 1743-1860.
With this edition comes the start of a new publishing partnership with the Sheffield Assay Office, whose connections with the Bradbury family go back many years.
Now something of an institution, the idea for this famous little book came from Frederick Bradbury’s (1864-1949) habit of noting in his pocket diary the hallmarks he had seen on antique silver when travelling round the country for the family firm, Thomas Bradbury, one of the largest silver manufacturers and established in the 18th century.
Frederick was persuaded to publish this diary, which now includes illustrations of town-marks and date-letters for all the existing British Assay offices from their foundation up to 2005, together with contact details, including Websites. There is information on Assay offices no longer extant and marks used by minor guilds. Current hallmarking legislation is included together with various changes in hallmarking law which have occurred over the centuries. Excellent value.
A gem of a reference work
Bradbury’s Book of Hallmarks, revised edition 2002, published by the Sheffield Assay Office, Guardians Hall, 137 Portobello Road, Sheffield Sl 4DS. Tel: 0114 275 5111 Hardback £16 ISBN l872212026. Paperback ISBN 1872212034 £5.50
