When examining your silver, hallmarks are one of the most reliable clues for determining age, origin, and purity — but it’s important to remember that not all genuine silver is marked, and many unmarked pieces can still be highly valuable. Look for common purity indicators such as “COIN”, .800, .925, STERLING, or symbols like the lion passant found on British silver. Foreign silver often carries its own system of assay marks, including British, Dutch, French, and Asian hallmarks, each with distinct symbols, letters, or pictorial stamps. These marks can reveal where a piece was made, who crafted it, and whether it was officially tested for purity. However, some antique or handmade items may be completely unmarked, yet still test as solid silver based on craftsmanship, weight, and alloy composition – So when in doubt, professional testing by one of our specialists can help authenticate your silver.