A George III Sterling Silver Quart Tankard London 1780

Description

Heading :A hallmarked sterling silver tankard
Date : Hallmarked in London 1780 For John Sidway
Period : George III
Origin : London England
Decoration : Reeded belley and terraced foot
Size :  Height 16.7cm. base diameter 10.5cm
Condition : A few small dings on the flank
Restoration : None
Weight :  308grams ( 9.9 troy)

In 1780 the price of silver increased rapidly. Supply was interrupted by the American revolutionary wars and the fourth Anglo-Dutch war. Silversmiths responded by using silver coinage to as ‘make weights’ by using within decoration and melting coins down.

Having received a commission to make a item for a client margins were eroded at best or serious losses would ensue with rampant commodity inflation. Silversmiths responded in the only way they could. silver was made to go a little further.

This is a perfectly functional quart tankard. Add beer. toast the Queen and enjoy.