George III Silver Toddy Ladle With George II Silver Shilling

Description

Heading : A George III silver toddy ladle
Date : The George II silver shilling is dated 1757 and is embedded in the base of the bowl. It must have been made after 1760
Period : George III. most probably 1760-64 when the price of silver spiked due to the seven years war and coins wee used to “make weight”
Origin : England
Decoration : Bowl engraved MB. Twisted baleen handle
Size :  Length: 32.5cm
Condition : Excellent
Restoration : None
Weight :  Gross: 42 grams

The silver is not hallmarked but it tests as sterling.

The scarcity of silver in the early and mid-18th century had silversmiths reaching into their pockets. Coins were clipped. the edges were trimmed. and these were melted down. Due the the scarcity of silver. the Government itself struggled to produce enough coinage. Defacing. clipping and “modifying coins” was an act of treason. For this very reason most ladles with coins are not hallmarked otherwise the silversmith may as well have written his own confession.