Also, although it’s EPBM, the silver plating is as thick as foil (see underside photo where it has peeled away from the edge). Is this typical silver plating or something else?
Any insights would be very much appreciated!
1879-1927
Basic mark used in this period. The “trumpet and banner” was registered in 1879 and added to the mark to avoid confusion with those of two Sheffield competitors having the same initials, Joseph Deakin & Sons and James Deakin & Sons. The mark in a semi-circle with Sheffield beneath was introduced in 1921. The mark JD&S was used from c. 1920.
DIXONDATE1879.2BIS.jpg (354×353)
Trumpet - trader mark
JD&S - James Dixon and Sons
EPBM - Electro Plate Brittania Metal
2 388 or 388 - catalogue (pattern, shape) number
5 - size of item (?)
K - reseller mark (?)
Electroplating usually deposits a layer of silver that runs between 40 and 60 microns thick, which is similar to typical aluminum foil. If it’s peeling, that indicates some defect in the process - surface not clean enough, contamination in the “bath,” inconsistent current, etc., etc.
The style shouts “late Victorian,” but similar pieces continued to be made right through to the reign of George V.
Hi Jeff… thanks for your insights!
Concerning the thickness of EPNS, this quote is from www.sivercollection.it -
“British electroplaters used a letter code for their “Plated” wares. The best quality was “A1” or “AI”, lower level was “A”, next level was “B”, followed by level “C”, and the lowest level was “D”.
A1 (or AI)= Superior Quality = 32 grams on 12 pieces = 2 2/3 grams per table spoon or table fork
A = Standard Quality = 24 grams on 12 pieces = 2 grams per table spoon or table fork
B1 = Quality code found in a Walker & Hall spoon = meaning unknown
B = Third Quality = 16 grams on 12 pieces = 1 1/3 grams per table spoon or table fork
C = Fourth Quality = 12 grams on 12 pieces = 1 grams per table spoon or table fork
D = Fifth Quality = 6 grams on 12 pieces = 0 1/2 grams per table spoon or table fork
(Example by Barker Brothers, Birmingham, around 1900: courtesy Oskar M. Zurell)”
So, there is EPNS and there is EPNS.
My ancient well-used flatware is A1, and on the worn sections under the bowls of the spoons one can see that it is a very thick layer.
I do not know if these marks were used for such gorgeous things as yours - our experts will advise us, please
