hi,

A piece I thought was silver now appears to be Sheffield electro plate and I am looking for information the easy way on what I have discovered so far.

On the bottom of this goblet are the markings for James Dixon and sons, however they appear to be different to ones I have found on the net and are likely to be early in the companies history. A '|' symbols denotes the end of that individual stamp
JD | & | S | EP
underneath the above stamps are
02344 adn just next to those is a scratched on number which is just visable and looks like
9/388

So what do I want? Any information regarding dating this piece and any history anyone has on the above company.

What I have found so far

Sheffield firm, founded in 1806 by James Dixon.
In 1811 became a partnership Dixon & Smith.
In 1822 the company moved to Cornish Place and became Dixon & Son, then in 1835 became James Dixon & Sons. The firm continued to be a family run enterprise until 1976.
The famous trumpet and banner trade mark was granted in 1879

I have found so far that workshops owned by James Dixon and Sons were involved in the Sheffield flood and some dies and stamps were damaged, which could be an indication of where and when my piece was made?
Cornish Works, the property of Messrs. James Dixon and Sons, were flooded, and the dies and stamps in the lower rooms were injured. The boundary wall of Cornish Lane was knocked down for some distance. taken from A Complete History of The Great Flood at Sheffield by Samuel Harrison (http://www.shef.ac.uk/misc/personal/cs1ma/flood/book/w-page18.html)

Any help greatly appreciated.

I use to work in the silverware trade until I was made redundant in the late 80's.The numbers could be the style/catalogue number.
From memory James Dixons stamps/dies/tooling were brought by a company called Cooper Cobbs which also went into receivership in the early 90's. A company called British Silverware Ltd now owns several old Sheffield family silverware companies. The head office is registered at Royd Mills,Windsor Street,Sheffield.
Tel. No. 0114 286 0500. The directors of BSL are made of manangers of THESSCO ( The Sheffield Smelting Co) .
It may also be worth trying the Sheffield Central Library on Surrey Street, Local History Library Upstairs, they may have old trade catalogues as reference material. Hope this as been of use.

I believe because of the stamps it has it cannot have been made after 1879 because that is when James Dixon and Sons were granted a bugle trademark stamp.
Also it couldn't have been made before 1835 because before that the company was known by a different name so the inititials wouldn't have been used.
I have cross referenced with other stamps (online) and it appears that it is likely to be James Dixon, but the way the stamp is on there, is different to anything I have seen so far for that company, which is why I thought the dates of the flood may have been relevant. If they had lost the sies and stamps they may have created new/different ones?

So at these dates would there still have been catalogues?

Thank you for the info BTW.

Moon

BUMP up for another thread relating to James Dixon

Moon Maiden

My Wife used to work at James Dixons 45 year ago..Where she used to Polish Items like silverware and drinking flasks..I have several pieces of JD Some silver. but mostly pewter mainly Teapots and Coffee pots....I also have difficulty dating the marks.

Hiya. Me and my partner have just bought our 1st place together. It is in Cornish Place. The old factory of James Dixon & sons. It was converted into apartments 4 yrs ago. We are both very interested to find out more about the history of the building and we would love to acquire some original James Dixon & sons silverware so we can bring it 'home'. If anyone one has any old pictures of Cornish Place or any info, please let me know. Thanks Jen x x x

Please help for info on Pewter Jug that we have owned for the last 17 years and can't seem to find any info on it. We believe it to be a hot water jug of some description, approx 7 inches high with a hinged lid and an acorn finial. It has 5 hallmarks underneath:- First one being a crown similar to a fleur de lys???? (spelling prob wrong), Second one:- Looks like a figure rowing in a swan like boat. The next three seem to be a 'D & S. We have looked on the net and have come up with Dixon and Smith/Son???? On top of these hallmarks is the number '2'. Underneath these are the numbers 0471.
Any info would be very much appreciated.

Hi Everyone!

I CAN'T believe that I just found this forum AFTER a year of searching out information on this Dixon tilting water kettle that I purchased .. By Accident!!

Moon Maiden, I have a similar problem on dating my kettle as you do.

On the bottom of the kettle, all it has is D*S

I had No idea that this was a Dixon piece until I wrote to a gentleman at the Silvervault in London.

He seemed very excited and had me send close-up pictures of the bottom and of the ivory and pins in the handle.

He confirmed that it was Dixon and true Sheffield Plate but, he couldn't give me a date.

I am not even sure if this is Dixon and Smith or Dixon and Son.

The curator said that the piece looked Alot like a Paul Storr design.

I have pictures if anyone is interested and I Think that I saved the letter from the curator.

I am so happy to have found this forum.

Thank You 8)

MC

P.S. There are some numbers on the base too.

A 3 above the D*S and 1213 below the D*S

Got an interesting bowl marked |J.D|&|S|EP then has a shield that has what looks a bit like a lamp in it. This is followed by Sheffield : English Pewter : P904. The bowl is quite distinctive in design with a geometric pattern all the way around.

I have posted up two pictures here:

http://www.imgbucket.com/62/ArtDecoBowl4.jpg

http://www.imgbucket.com/14/ArtDecoBowl2.jpg

Anyone got any ideas? Would be interested in any info. I assume it is by James Dixon and Sons? Anyone suggest a date?

James

A lot of these James Dixon items, Tea pots, coffee pots, and water jugs, all have a single number on the base 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5,
This denotes the size of the item in servings of 1 third of a pint ( a teacup full)..I have an old pewter teapot with the number 7 and it,s really a big one and it will pour out 7 cups of tea easily.

We have had in the family for over 50 years a ceramic teapot(?) which has a 4" dia round base, 4 1/2" dia six-sided container which is reduced to a 1 1/2" neck and has a pewter hinged lid. This blue with gold over white procelin is over 10" high and has "James Dixon and Sons" on the inside of the pewter lid and a "5." shown on the bottom without any other marks or identification. It is quite graceful with its high and curving handle.

Can you give us some background on this beautiful pot?

Thank you so much,
Carl

Hi. We found this forum when looking for information on James Dixon & Sons as we have quite a bit of silver cutlery & similar items to sell. (We are Nottingham based). The JD piece we have looks like a tea strainer & bears the marks |JD|&|S| followed by a shield with 2 triangles inside (which we take to be the bugle/trumpet mark). We have no idea if it's worth anything but are now interested in it's history. (As far as we know, this is the only piece of JD & S silver we have - we have much more & are trying to find out more info on the other items too). The tea strainer we have can be viewed here:

http://www.VicnLiz.org.uk/pics/jds01.jpg
http://www.VicnLiz.org.uk/pics/jds02.jpg
http://www.VicnLiz.org.uk/pics/jds03.jpg

Any further info' will be great. Thanks, Vic & Liz. :)

My grandfather worked as a silversmith at Dixons from 1895 to 1945. He was presented with an EPNS teapot to commemorate 50 years loyal service. They spelled his name wrong!!!! I still have the pot and some of his apprentice pieces. They will be passed down to the eldest sons of the family in perpetuity.

Here's a good start for Hallmark info from the Sheffield assay office: http://www.assayoffice.co.uk/hallmark.htm

Another collection of useful links: http://www.sheffieldgalleries.org.uk/coresite/html/aboutmetal.asp

And Moon - is 'l' actually the date year? the style of 'l' would need to be identified though to tie it down properly

Edit: more useful info: http://antiques-finder.co.uk/marks.htm

http://www.csbooks.co.uk/acatalog/info_MI_2042.html

I have a rather large serving spoon that has the James Dixon and Sons mark J D & S, but just before it, it has a Capitol letter "A" in a circle, nothing else. The spoon is engraved with a garden in Melbourne, Australia, "Boathouse Kew". Can anyone tell me if the A just simply signifies Australia, or maybe a year of manufacture? There is no indication of any heel wear or pitting. I kind of thought it might be sterling, but there are no assay marks or anything. Was silverware made in the Sheffield Plate process? Thanks in advance for any information.

I have a cruet made by the Dixon Company. It is two tiered with a handle in the middle. It has four holes in the metal holding two glass bottles almost like two small decanters, I suppose they are for vinegar and oil. Also there are two further holes with a glass pepper pot- the top is metal and a mustard pot ,the top also is metal.
The markings are as follows.

X
Bugle with banner hanging from underneath
Numbers almost worn away with cleaning
EPBM
3340

This cruet belonged to my grandmother and has been in the family for at least 70 years.
I would love to know just how old it is.

Marinthea, Canada.

Just for information as I was in Waterstones earlier this week and came across a new soft back book on the history of James Dixon and Sons, its in the local history section

Cynthia,

I have a book about Sheffield published in 1889, it has quite a lot about James Dixon & Sons but this bit may well interest you.

"It is indeed so like silver that in the case of some articles exhibted in the Great Exhibition of 1851 there was considerable difficulty in distinguishing the difference. The authorities recommended them to inscribe the words "Britannia Metal" on the cases so that the goods might not be mistaken for silver"

Looks as though that might be the explanation of the EPBM marking (Electro Plated Britannia Metal).

jen13

My book says "The extent of their productions may be judged by the fact that the works, of which we give an illustration, cover about four acres of land and more than 700 people are employed in them"

The illustration is a beautiful etching or the works complete with horses and carts, sorry but there is no way I could get it on my PC.

Thanks "Extaxman" for the info on my cruet. I have had a look at the numbers that are nearly worn away through a magnifying glass and now realise that they are some sort of a Hall mark.
Years ago when I lived in Sheffield I checked the bugle with banner at the City Library and established that it was made by Dixons but I could not find any dates. Your information is what I have tried to find out for a long time.
Many thanks,
Cynthia, Ontario, Canada. ex Sheffield

Originally posted by extaxman

The illustration is a beautiful etching or the works complete with horses and carts, sorry but there is no way I could get it on my PC.

Is it this one ?

http://www.picturesheffield.co.uk/cgi-bin/picturesheffield.pl?_cgifunction=form&_layout=picturesheffield&keyval=sheff.id=3748

That's the one, never thought it would be on PictureSheffield.

Jen13 will be pleased to know.

Hi
Not sure if l have posted this request for info on the correct format, but here goes... Just purchased a waterjug/teapot (not sure which) made by James Dixon & Sons. Marks are as follows...

'C' on it's side with solid triangle or arrow shape inside, trumpet with banner logo, E.P.B.M, James Dixon & Sons on half circle, Sheffield, large E with 782, then single letter underneath...3, then Made In England.

Shape of jug has North African appearence, being about 7-8 inches high. Bulbous squat body, leading to slender neck to hinged lid, with lovely flowing spout. Has two raised black enamel bands on handle. Difficult to describe, could post photo if anybody could kindly tell me the age of this piece (my guess is not that old as the price l paid was very modest). Would be very interested to receive info please.

Kimrob

I cant seem to find the right key to get in on the forum, but I am intereseted in getting some info on a HIP Flask made by James Dixon & Sons. Has the half moon and bugle hallmarks and the number 1427. Also says 12 ozs. This flask belonged to my wifes father and he probably purchased it in the 1910-20 period. If anyone can give me some lowdown on it I would appreciate it very much. Cheers from Canada. old_griz&shaw.ca

Hello,
I recently obtained what was described as a pewter hip flask made by James Dixon & Sons. I am interested in finding out two things about this flask: first, about when was this flask made; and second, is the flask made of pewter or Britannia metal?

The flask is 6 inches tall and 3 1/2 inches wide and about 1 inch thick. It has a knurled screw top with a natural cork seal inside the top.

The only markings are on the bottom include: in the center of the bottom a trumpet and banner uderneath which is written "James Dixon & Sons" and under that "Sheffield." To the right of this is stamped the number "1413." To the left of center is a hollow inverted U shape--sort of looks like the receiver on a telephone set. There are no other markings, not the word England or Made in England--nothing else.

Any information would be greatly appreciated.

Cheers,
John

Originally posted by Cynthia
I have a cruet made by the Dixon Company. It is two tiered with a handle in the middle. It has four holes in the metal holding two glass bottles almost like two small decanters, I suppose they are for vinegar and oil. Also there are two further holes with a glass pepper pot- the top is metal and a mustard pot ,the top also is metal.
The markings are as follows.

X
Bugle with banner hanging from underneath
Numbers almost worn away with cleaning
EPBM
3340

This cruet belonged to my grandmother and has been in the family for at least 70 years.
I would love to know just how old it is.

I think that the letters EPBM may mean ELECTROPLATED BRITANNIA METAL and the numbers are a pattern No and the bugle with the banner is probably a trade mark. Brittania Metal was just a sheet of copper that was rolled with a sheet of silver and any object made from that marriage looked just like the more expensive sterling silver and any piece of cutlery where the silver has become bare (the base metal showing through) it can be re-plated but I dont recomend this with any valuable piece.

Marinthea, Canada.

Originally posted by dianess
I have a rather large serving spoon that has the James Dixon and Sons mark J D & S, but just before it, it has a Capitol letter "A" in a circle, nothing else. The spoon is engraved with a garden in Melbourne, Australia, "Boathouse Kew". Can anyone tell me if the A just simply signifies Australia, or maybe a year of manufacture? There is no indication of any heel wear or pitting. I kind of thought it might be sterling, but there are no assay marks or anything. Was silverware made in the Sheffield Plate process? Thanks in advance for any information.

Sheffield hallmarks are only put on sterling silver pieces, at a guess the A in a circle could be the first name of the customer that ordered it, it could have been a company or a shipping line but I must add company logos are usually placed on the front of the shank towards the tip. If there is no wear on the heel of the spoon its a good bet it was used the proper way with the bowl facing down on the table and the heel facing up, this is how people showed off their wealth by displaying the hallmarks.

Hi Moonmaiden the marks you are querying look just like ordinary marks that are put on their pieces E.P. just means ELECTRO PLATE the other Nos are just pattern identification.
When describing silver plate in the trade to-day we still say E.P.

I have a teapot, creamer and another pot..JAmes Dixon and Sons, 1843. Does anyone know the value of such items?

Hi Moon Maiden, the numbers 9/3888 that are just visible are just scratched on they are probably the work of a Pawnbroker, thats the way they used to be marked. I have an old Silver Pocket Watch and its covered in barely visible marks.

Originally posted by Moon Maiden
hi,


So what do I want? Any information regarding dating this piece and any history anyone has on the above company.

Any help greatly appreciated.
If memory isn't failing me, James Dixons went under in the early 1980s because of cash flow problems.
Those old enough will remember silver prices going through the roof in the late 70's (rampant UK inflation), and Silversmiths in particular had real problems because the price they were having to pay for new stocks of raw silver were far greater than the money the companies were getting from the buyers of existing stock. This was made worse because Dixon's only supplied the trade, who typically were only paying up after 90 days, if at all, as they too were struggling.

Can't remember if someone bought the Dixon's trade mark. Before going under Dixon's were a leading light of the Company of Master Cutlers, fought hard for the "made in Sheffield" tag to be restricted to items actually made in Sheffield because company's like V*@n&#s were allegedto be inmporting cheap cutlery from the far east, and stamping it V*'n&#s of Sheffield.

It wasnt the English inflation that made the cost of Silver to rise, it was two brothers either in U.S.A. or in the far east who bought up nearly all the worlds reserves just to corner the market and make the price rise which they successfully did.
All of DIXONS marks are now owned by THE SOLPRO GROUP including BRITISH SILVERWARE which is situated at WINDSOR ST down ATTERCLIFFE. When I worked at BRITISH SILVERWARE I saw the the hundreds of marks and dies that they had down Heeley and they stil had hundreds more at Windsor St.
The craftmanship of the work on the dies was top class.

dianess - ther is a Boathouse in Kew in Melbourne - but have no idea how about the Dixon connection.

Is James Dixon still in business? I have a large amount of their silver plate - last visited their office in 1982 - just after their first liquidation!! Not surprised as their office and stock control was archaic! I would like to buy more if it is still being manufactured - cant buy in Australia any more.

Also - my grandfather was a silversmith and cutler - how do you find out what was his hall mark - I have had no response from various libriares etc.

I have 'Sidney' silver for James Dixon. Anyone know what this is?

I worked at Dixons for a short time, on the photograph on this site through the main gate, to the left there's a doorway in the end building upstairs third floor I think, overlooking the river Don, used to chuck all the mistakes through the window.

To the right of the main gate near the end of the main building was holloware where they made tea pots etc.

Still got a buffing stool, and some of the Victorian cupboard doors that I acquired when they were converted into flats.
They have some interesting snippets pasted on them, must get round to scanning them, as I remember something about children under ten years old not being employed, and some formula's for something or other.

Originally posted by retep
I worked at Dixons for a short time, on the photograph on this site through the main gate, to the left there's a doorway in the end building upstairs third floor I think, overlooking the river Don, used to chuck all the mistakes through the window.

To the right of the main gate near the end of the main building was holloware where they made tea pots etc.

Still got a buffing stool, and some of the Victorian cupboard doors that I acquired when they were converted into flats.
They have some interesting snippets pasted on them, must get round to scanning them, as I remember something about children under ten years old not being employed, and some formula's for something or other.

Sorry retep but there is no such thing as a BUFFING STOOL you could only Buff stood up, you would get very bad back ache if you worked sat down. Buffers had to use their whole body when Buffing this is impossible when sat down.

Sorry i should have said a stool from a buffing shop, the old fella used to use it when he was buffing fine stuff, and so pee's on your theory about impossible when sat down.

He also spent plenty of time making fishing lure's out of silver tea spoons.

Originally posted by retep
Sorry i should have said a stool from a buffing shop, the old fella used to use it when he was buffing fine stuff, and so pee's on your theory about impossible when sat down.

He also spent plenty of time making fishing lure's out of silver tea spoons.
Ive worked in numerous Cutlery firms for well over 43 years and I have never seen anybody sitting down to Sand Buff. The firms were littered with three legged stools from twelve inches high to three foot. I digress, I would have to see someone sat Buffing to believe it, sorry.

Who mentioned sand buffing, and the common name for the three leg stools in the antique trade is Buffing stool,
but as you say and I stood corrected there is no such thing as a buffing stool, only a stool from a buffing shop. As for buffing there are numerous types of buffing but who wants to get technical.
By the way mine's a four legged one bit like a bar stool, nice level floors at Dixons.

There is only one type of Buffing and that is by using sand and oil. Some people call Dollying Buffing but its not, the other polishing terms are Sisaling, Silver Finishing and Satin Finishing.
By the way three legged stools are worth a good bit of money and I would think yours is too. Honours even.

Hi, I'm not from Sheffield (sorry) but I work in a charity shop in the Midlands and we have had a silver/silver-like teapot donated.

It appears to have "J & S" stamped on the bottom of it, with a "G" below that. there is also a "1245" etched in. I can't decipher the other marks, but if anyone has any info I would be very grateful!

Sam
x

I have only just found this thread so hope my response reaches all interested parties. At the very end of 2004 I had book published called 'Made in Sheffield The story of James Dixon and Sons, silversmiths'
ISBN 1-901587-52-5 pub by ALD publications, sheffield. 6 generations of my family worked there.
As I am very passionate about the work of the firm I approached the Millenium Galleries Manager and suggested that an exhibition in 2006 would be a good idea to mark the 200 years since the firm was started. I am delighted to say that this is starting Aug 5th until end of October 2006
I would be delighted to answer any queries about the firm.
Pauline Cooper Bell
pbell7@btinternet.com

Hiya. Me and my partner have just bought our 1st place together. It is in Cornish Place. The old factory of James Dixon & sons. It was converted into apartments 4 yrs ago. We are both very interested to find out more about the history of the building and we would love to acquire some original James Dixon & sons silverware so we can bring it 'home'. If anyone one has any old pictures of Cornish Place or any info, please let me know. Thanks Jen x x x

Hi, I am a new user of this site and boy am I glad to have found a place where I can maybe get some info from fellow enthusiasts of James Dixon and sons. I wqould love some info on a bowl that I have from JD&sons with the trumpet/bugle stamp,it is stamped on the base EP JD&S then the trumpet mark, above this is the numbers 7 1/2 and underneath the stamps is the letter and numbers Y2711 and under that it has MADE IN ENGLAND. The bowl is on a pedestal and is round with 9 scalloped shapes up to half way of the bowl. I as I said would be extremely grateful for any info as to the date of the piece aswell as a value or estimate if at all possible.

thanks in advance for your help. kath

Hi, Hope someone out there can help me. I know nothing about silver or metalware. I was given a hipflask by an elderly relative and was going to give it to the local charity shop when I thought I would look up the name James Dixon and Sons - and now I am interested to learn more about it and to give it a permanant home! It has the bugle horn symbol, with like a U above it, the exact words and letters on it are as follows, Made in England, James Dixon & sons, sheffield. 48 8ozs E.T. Can anyone help me with the number 48, and E.T, I am not even sure what it is made of I have polished it up and it has come up quite nice but there is no silver mark or EPNS on it. Thanks Minimonkeychow :D

Kathy,
I too am looking for information on an item, was wondering if you have obtained any more information on the piece you have - mine also have the trumpet, numbers, ect.

And Moon - is 'l' actually the date year? the style of 'l' would need to be identified though to tie it down properly

Can you help date the markings by having 'James Dixon & Sons' completely stamped in rather than J D & S? My piece is described as posted earlier...

There first is an 'O' stamped above the info then and indented circle with the symbol that you show on your page, and Below that is a Stamp of a Trumpet.
Then..
James Dixon & Sons
Sheffield
EPBM
219
4
below that is another stamp, A Saunders Sydney (I am presuming this is where it was sold from in Australia, but I cannot be sure).

It's in pretty good shape and has a ring of porcelain on the handle and a pretty flower and leaf pattern on it with a swirl design on the bottom.

Hi, I've never submitted a reply on this forum before so I hope this makes sense. I can't tell if you all have received a reply to your posts so I wanted to give you some of the information I have gained. I've been doing research on James Dixon & Sons, James Deakin & Sons and John Dixon and Sons. I am going to share what I have learned and hopefully I'm not sending you the same old stuff that someone else has already sent to your posts. Also, I've never used tags and plan to leave those alone, so please bear with me.
I'll start with coffee and tea ware. Creamers, pitchers or jugs along with the sugar bowl, tea and coffee pot, were made as separate items until the coming of the 19th century. The five piece set which then appeared was comprised of a teapot, coffee pot, hot water jug, sugar bowl and creamer. Both the teapot and coffee pot were proned to losing their lids and being partly melted by being put too close to the fire or on the hob to keep warm. Nearly all of these 19th century pieces would be Britannia Metal, an alloy of tin, copper and antimony. Similar to the look and feel to pewter, but much harder. Used primarily as a base metal to be silverplated. E.P.B.M. - Electroplated Britannia Metal. Electropolated Nickel Silver has the initials E.P.N.S., Electroplated Copper, E.P.C. and E.P.W.M., Eelectroplated White Metal. By 1838 Elkington & Co. had discovered and patented electroplating, E.P. In 1842 the company received financial backing from Josiah Mason, renaming the firm to Elkington, Mason & Co. a very successful company. The firm introduced Electrotyping as a new method of production for silver plated items, E.T.
Are you still with me? I'm going to have to finish this tomorrow. If I had realized I was going to go on and on and on, I would have started this much earlier! Please, if somebody has already submitted this information, let me know and I'll stop boring you with my gleanings. So, goodnight and you all have a great day.
Clydie ;)

Thanks Ladylikeme now I know what ET stands for does that help indicate a date too? Thanks so much for your info. regards minimonkeychow:)

OK, I'M BACK TO CONTINUE ON... I GAVE YOU ALL A CHANCE - NOBODY SAID QUIT, SO HERE WE GO!
[SIZE="2"]Elkington, Mason & Co. between 1842 - 1861
Elkington, Mason @ Co introduced electrotyping as a new method of production for silver plated items. Elkington & Co. exhibited at the Great Exhibition of 1851 with enormous success. (I am guessing that Electrotyping dates after Mason supplied financial backing in 1842 and before 1851).

Dates for James Dixon

1806 - founded Sheffield
1811 - became Dixon & Smith
1822 - changed to Dixon & Son
1835 - James Dixon & Sons (JD&S)
1879 - Trumpet and Banner Trademark granted

Looking at the marks:

Before 1879 - James Dixon & Sons - No Trademark
After 1879 - James Dixon & Sons -= Trumpet and Banner Trademark
JD & S James Dixon & Sons is easily mistaken for James Deakin & Sons if shown without the trademark. To differentiate between the two; James Dixon & Sons "JD&S" is always on a single line. James Deakin & Sons "JD&S" is always "JD" over "&S".

The makers mark is usually surrounded by a Small shield or border.

City Mark - Assay office mark for Sheffiield is a crown then later on a rose. If you look at the shape of the shield cartouche around the City Mark, it generally changes to match the shield around the Date Letter Mark.

Date Letter - Each of the Assay Offices uses a different letter each year. The yearly letter, until recently varied from one office to another, so it is necessary to consult a list for each particular office when dating the item.

The typeface or font, the case of the letter (I) (i) upper or lower and the style of the surrounding shield are all relevant and should be carefully compared to a list when dating the item.

If it is silver and not electroplate the Standard Mark indicates the purity of the silver. The standard mark is the Lion Passant.

Several of James Dixon's teapots have a single number on the base, 1,2,3,4, or 5. This number denotes the size of servings.

Other ways to date pots:

The highly ornate metal knobs or finials seen on teapots, date the pot from 1830 to about 1870. No metal knobs were seen prior to 1830. The bone and wooden knobs used from 1780-1830 re-appeared in similar form in 1870 but this time they were secured by a screw thread instead of being soldered into the lid.

The earlier tea and coffee pots had wooden handles. Unlike silver pots, the handles remained wooden until Broadhead and Atkin brought out their patented anti-caloric metal handle in 1840.

Up until 1800 the coffee and teapots had flat bottoms. Then ball and lion-paw and bracket feet reigned, soon to be followed by rounded rim bases. The Adam revival around 1870 saw the return of the flat base.

The shape of the pot can also help with dating. Bullet shape, lid with concealed hinges, or bight cutting are usually from the late 18th Century. Some of the 19th century teapots were covered with cuttings.

I hoped I've helped answer some of the questions out there and made it a little easier to decipher some of the marks on your item.

Please, do not hold anything I have written as fact, it is merely an overview of my research.

Also, please contact me if you have any questions I might be able to answer.

Goodnight,
Ladylikeme :wave:
PS. minimonkeych - Did this help answer your question?
:thumbsup:


JD&S

Hello, if not too tired perhaps you wouldn't mind trying to identify my teapot. Any info would be helpful since I can only pick up bits and pieces. As I said it is a teapot, presumably made of Britania Metal, all metal, underneath has number 8 , then a little lower James number 74 upper right of James, next line Dixon & Sons, next line number "18" larger number "4" with small circle above the 4, the number 8 and letter C. Any help whatsoever would be appreciated. thanks.

[SIZE="3"]Hi arizonajoe,

I'm not sure how much I can help you without seeing a picture of the teapot. The picture needs to show the whole teapot then another one showing the markings on the bottom.

From what I've read in your post, your teapot is all metal. I'm assuming the handle is metal, if so, the metal handle was patented in 1840. Before 1840 the handles were wooden.

In 1835 they started using the name James Dixon and Sons. Before 1835 they were know as Dixon and Son. I've never seen James Dixon & Sons name stamped the way you explained it. Is it "James Dixon" "& Sons" or is it "James" then below it "Dixon & Sons"?

The trademark of the trumpet and banner was granted in 1879. Since you didn't mention the trumpet and banner the teapot was probably made before 1879. James Dixon & Sons' name was not used until after 1835 and if the handle on the teapot is metal, then it would be made after 1840. So, without seeing the teapot, I'm guessing it was made between 1840-1879.

A picture would help me date the teapot by the shape of the pot, bottom of the pot, base of the pot, the handle and the finial (knob) on the lid. Is the finial soldered on or is it secured by a screw-thread?

It would also help me if I saw the markings you were talking about in your post.

Please remember, I am just guessing at this, if someone else has more knowledge, please jump in. :?

Have a great day! :thumbsup:
ladylikeme

My dad was Marketing Manager for James Dixons and my brother still works for the company. It went through various name changes in the 80s and 90s and closed the Cornish Place and Shalesmoor sites. The company is now in Attercliffe.

Hi ladylikeme, thanks for the response. I would be happy to send a pic if someone could tell me how to include it with the post. I did not see the "img" icon that the FAQ said would be there. In the meantime, yes, the teapot is all metal, including handle and knob. the first stamped line on the bottom does read "James" with the the two numbers "4" & "74" just above the James, the next line is "Dixon & Sons", the next line is number "18" larger number "4" with small circle above the 4, the number 8 and letter C. The finial looks like it is soldered on, however you can turn it very slightly. Ok, thanks again and anxiously awaiting your next post.

Hope I can join in for a bit of information. I just bought a squatty little tea pot at a local Goodwill store in Jacksonville, Florida and wonder about the age.
It appears to be Brittania/pewter and is rather roughly made. It is about 7.5 inches high and has wooden handle and finial which seems to be soldered on rather than screwed.. It is marked 'James' above 'Dixon & Sons' with a 48 on the left of James and a 5 on the right. Below it all is the number 1532C .... the 1 is stamped upside down, surely by mistake.
Can you help in dating this. I read your dating descriptions above but can't quite figure this out... looks perhaps like it is pre-1879!? I am unable to send a picture at this time but will try to do so if that is necessary.
Thanks from Florida
Wilson

Hi Wilson,
In your post you said the teapot has a wooden handle and finial. If the handle and the finial are both wooden and soldered on it would date your teapot prior to 1830.
You should be able to tell if the knob is screwed on or soldered. If it is screwed on, you'll see a little nut under the lid, holding the finial to the lid; which would date the teapot no earlier than 1870.

Next we have the problem with the name and date. The name James Dixon & Sons was not used until 1835. For your teapot to be dated prior to 1830 the name on the bottom would be Dixon and Son.

Going by what I've read, I would think your pot is dated somewhere between 1835 and 1870,

I'm not too sure about the markings on the bottom of the pot. The number "1" may have been placed upside down for a reason. I have a teapot with the number "3" on it's side and facing down. If anybody knows how they placed numbers I would love to have the information. Also, without seeing the teapot I'm not sure how clear and visible the numbers and letters are. With your teapot being roughly made and it being so old, some of the letters or numbers may have rubbed off or been marred in some way to make them hard to read. The "c" could be a date mark or it also could be a crescent shape and not a date mark. Also on the "1" if it is not a number but a letter such as "I" or "l" then I would think it could possibly be the date mark.

I know I haven't really told you a whole lot. I may be able to help more if I could see a clear picture of the teapot, base of the teapot and the marks.

This is something I just read today, if your teapot is pewter, polish it with the outer leaves of a cabbage then buff with a soft cloth! I wonder who thought of shining their teapots with cabbage leaves?

If you would like more help, please submit two - three pictures and keep going to the Goodwill shops, there's no telling what you might find!
Warm Regards,
ladylikeme
:thumbsup: :banana:

LLMe,
Thanks for the reply. I can't figure how to add pictures at the moment.
Another thing.... is it possible the handles are something other than wood. They are black and very hard - just don't seem quite right for wood. They almost LOOK like a black bakolite material!? The base of the black handle looks to be held onto the pot with a copper(?) link/loop through the handle which holds it to the metal (3/4 inch long) handle base.
Does that make any sense?

Based on your earlier writings...... the handle is NOT metal and there is no trumpet and banner. That SHOULD put the age at 1835 - 1840. Is that right?
1. 1835 they took the name James Dixon & Sons.
2. Wooden handle = pre-1840.
3. 1879 they receivedd the trumpet/banner mark.

The finial is definitely soldered on. I can see a post poking through the solder under the lid. I guess it's possible that it could have been screwed on at one point and soldered on later. Why, I don't know.

Do you know of any pictures of teapots anywhere that I can look to try to identify the shape?

Another oddity ...... the soldering inside the pot of the base to the body is so roughly done that I wonder if it may not have been an old repair of a leaking pot!!?? The more I look at this thing the stranger it looks.:huh:
Fun though! Surely worth the $20 I paid and a nice addition to my small collection of pewter.
Thanks for your help and offer of more.
Wilson

Hi glaham,
Thank you for the information. I'm not from England so I'll have to look on my map to see where these places are.

Warm Regards,
ladylikeme
:thumbsup:

Hi Wilson,
The first thing I'll need is to see some pictures of the teapot. I would like to see 3-4 if possible.

Regarding wooden and metal handles; the metal handle was patented in 1840, however, some Silversmiths still used the wooden handle. After 1840, they had a choice of which handle to go with.

I'm looking forward to the pictures.

Warm Regards,
ladylikeme
:cool:

Dear LLM,
Thanks again. I will try to get one of my smart relatives (or at least younger!) to take the pics and figure how to send them to you asap. Do you know any sites where I can see examples of Dixon teapots?
Wilson

Hi Wilson,
You asked me previously if the handle on your teapot was something other than wood. You said it looked very black and very hard.

I imagine that the handle was ebonized. A stain or a dye was applied to the handle to make it look black or like ebony.

Warm Regards,
ladylikeme
:thumbsup:

Today i found this forum and a was suprised to find so many information about silverplated things made in Sheffield. And now I hope " Ladylikeme" you can help me date the markings by having `James Dixon & Sons` completely stamped.
We have some pieces (Teapot, cream and sugarpot and more ) and the all are stamped in the same way.
On the bottom first a single letter B or A/S or J
After that trumpet and banner
next line JAMES DIXON & SONS
next line SHEFFIELD
next line 12744
next line only the teapot two Lion with the head on the right side
and between something like a line with
letter or nummer in.
next line a number 3


This pieces were bought in Hamburg in 1955 and own them since 1983.

The pieces in good shape and the teapot has a ring of porcelain on the handle.

warm regard
hanseat

Hi Hanseat,
I'm sorry I'm slow in responding to your email. I'm getting ready to go on vacation and have most of my reference books packed. I have done a little research on your silver pieces, but what is throwing me is the two lions with the head on the right side. In your email you say Sheffield is under James Dixon & Sons. You don't mention any other initials like E.P.N.S OR E.P.B.M., etc. I'm assuming without any initials marking the pieces as silver plate then they are sterling silver. Sterling silver is marked with the lion passant, the lion has one paw raised and he is facing left. Now, I'm thinking by saying the "right side", you may have meant the right side of the teapot. Also there is no mention of a cartouche (the area the marks are stamped), which also helps date the pieces. Before I really try to narrow it down to the date, I would like to see a picture of the markings and of the teapot. I think the pictures would help me quite a bit in dating this for you and hopefully tell you a little more about your tea service. I appreciate your questions and am looking forward to seeing the pictures.
Warm Regards,
ladylikeme :wave:

Hi Hanseat,
I'm sorry I'm slow in responding to your email. I'm getting ready to go on vacation and have most of my reference books packed. I have done a little research on your silver pieces, but what is throwing me is the two lions with the head on the right side. In your email you say Sheffield is under James Dixon & Sons. You don't mention any other initials like E.P.N.S OR E.P.B.M., etc. I'm assuming without any initials marking the pieces as silver plate then they are sterling silver. Sterling silver is marked with the lion passant, the lion has one paw raised and he is facing left. Now, I'm thinking by saying the "right side", you may have meant the right side of the teapot. Also there is no mention of a cartouche (the area the marks are stamped), which also helps date the pieces. Before I really try to narrow it down to the date, I would like to see a picture of the markings and of the teapot. I think the pictures would help me quite a bit in dating this for you and hopefully tell you a little more about your tea service. I appreciate your questions and am looking forward to seeing the pictures.
Warm Regards,
ladylikeme :wave:
:thumbsup:

Hello ladylikeme,
thanks for the response and no hurry I have time .
These pieces are very interest, then I found on my research nothing like this marks.
Next days I will send some pictures, first I have to look for a camera.
To the marks again -- the both Lion facing right with a raising paw---
and the lion marks are in a circuit-- and between there is a square with some small ????? in.
---- under SHEFFIELD there no marks like E.P.N.S or E.P.B.M, etc.

Thank you for help and greetings from Flensburg

Kind Regards

Hi ladylikeme,

I´m back with some pictures. The way to see them is that you have to use the following adresses. (the pics in a hosting agent "bilder-hosting.de")

I´m in the forum a newcomer so I not allowed to send URL´s...
and now ??



Thank you for help and have a nice vacation

Warm Regards

hanseat

Hi Hanseat,
I found bilder-hosting-de, but that is as far as I got. I don't know how to search for your pictures on that site. Please send me step by step instructions for locating your pics. Hopefully I'll be able to find them, then get back to you.
Warm Regards,
ladylikeme
:help:

Just to confirm that James Dixon cutlery can be ordered
here -
www . sheffield-cutlery . com

Thanks for the great info Robert" I am going to check out that website as soon as I post this.
Have a Great Day!
ladylikeme
:thumbsup:

Hi, I've never submitted a reply on this forum before so I hope this makes sense. I can't tell if you all have received a reply to your posts so I wanted to give you some of the information I have gained. I've been doing research on James Dixon & Sons, James Deakin & Sons and John Dixon and Sons. I am going to share what I have learned and hopefully I'm not sending you the same old stuff that someone else has already sent to your posts. Also, I've never used tags and plan to leave those alone, so please bear with me.
I'll start with coffee and tea ware. Creamers, pitchers or jugs along with the sugar bowl, tea and coffee pot, were made as separate items until the coming of the 19th century. The five piece set which then appeared was comprised of a teapot, coffee pot, hot water jug, sugar bowl and creamer. Both the teapot and coffee pot were proned to losing their lids and being partly melted by being put too close to the fire or on the hob to keep warm. Nearly all of these 19th century pieces would be Britannia Metal, an alloy of tin, copper and antimony. Similar to the look and feel to pewter, but much harder. Used primarily as a base metal to be silverplated. E.P.B.M. - Electroplated Britannia Metal. Electropolated Nickel Silver has the initials E.P.N.S., Electroplated Copper, E.P.C. and E.P.W.M., Eelectroplated White Metal. By 1838 Elkington & Co. had discovered and patented electroplating, E.P. In 1842 the company received financial backing from Josiah Mason, renaming the firm to Elkington, Mason & Co. a very successful company. The firm introduced Electrotyping as a new method of production for silver plated items, E.T.
Are you still with me? I'm going to have to finish this tomorrow. If I had realized I was going to go on and on and on, I would have started this much earlier! Please, if somebody has already submitted this information, let me know and I'll stop boring you with my gleanings. So, goodnight and you all have a great day.
Clydie ;)

Hi and nice to meet you!
I too am researching James Dixon and Sons as I have a lovely Castor set complete with 6 cruets. The bottom of my piece has a stamped crown, under that is a circle with four sections in it depicting different animals. Next to the center circle on the right is a unicorn. On the left of the center circle is the lion holding up one paw looking left. Under the center circle is a banner that reads ET MON.
On another section of the castor set are a set of 7 different marks.
The first is a shield with a with a symbol looking like an E up against a backwards E. Possibly the customer mark...
The second mark is a very fancy letter D with an F inside of it.
The third mark is a shield. In the middle is &
The fourth mark is a coats and arms sheild. In the center is an S that looks like $.
The fifth mark is another shield with the letters PN and below those is S.
Below all five marks is R190 and a tiny symbol of what looks like a mushroom.
After reading all 5 pages of threads I am going too look for the book
ISBN 1-901587-52-5. Can you enlighten me on any information you have regarding these marks and/or the research books that you refer too?
I appreciate you time and wish you got paid for sharing your mind with the rest of us!
Thank you! Snappything

Hi,
At the present, I am on vacation. Hopefully I will get caught up on questions and requests on or before August 15, 2006. Please be patient, I will get a response to all of you when I return.
Thank you for your emails and posts.
ladylikeme
:banana:

When I wanted information about a James Dixon cruet that I own, I went to the Sheffield city library, they hold all the info about Hall Marks etc.

Cynthia, Ontario, Canada.

Sorry Hanseat, have just noticed that you are living in Germany.
Cynthia.

for any info on old marks and companys try sheffield assay office.
not sure if she still works there but Jackie the librarian is the person you need.
the no is 0114 2755111

See post by PAULINEB dated 1/3/2006 re an exhibition starting 4th. August2006.
Cynthia. Canada.

HI EVERYONE!
DID MY RESEARCH AND FOUND THE INFORMATION I WAS LOOKING FOR REGARDING JAMES DIXON AND SONS, SHEFFEILD.
HERE ARE THE URL'S THAT MAY HELP THE REST OF YOU WITH FINDING THE MARKS, AGE OF THE MARKS, SILVER, SILVERPLATE, AND THE GREAT FLOOD OF 1864.
ww.silvercollection.it/silverplatehallmarksJJ.html[/url]
ww.925-1000.com/dlSheffield.html[/url]
ww.silvercollection.it/electroplatesilver.html[/url]
ttp://freespace.virgin.net/a.data/sheffplate.htm[/url]
ww.mick-armitage.staff.shef.ac.uk/sheffield/flood.html[/url]
THERE ARE NO VIRUSES IN ANY OF THESE SIGHTS. I SPENT HOURS FINDING THESE SIGHTS AS THE BOOK ABOUT MARKS I CANNOT FIND IN THE STATES.
ISBN 1-901587-52-5
THE SIGHT ABOUT THE FLOOD IS REMARKABLE AND FULL HOURS OF READING AND PICTURES. TRAGIC LIVES LOST. INTERESTING STORIES OF SURVIVAL.
LIKE THE LITTLE GIRL THAT WAS FOUND SLEEPING IN HER BED AFTER THE FLOOD WITH NOTHING LEFT BUT THE CORNER OF THE HOUSE AND HER ROOM ON THE SECOND FLOOR. JUST THE CORNER OF HER ROOM JUST BIG ENOUGH FOR HER BED. SHE HEARD HER DAD, MOM AND BROTHERS GO DOWN THE STAIRS AND YELL FOR HELP AND THOUGHT THEY CAME BACK UP AND WENT TOO SLEEP...SO SHE WENT BACK TO SLEEP...SHE WAS THE ONLY SURVIVOR. JAMES DIXON AND SONS COMPANY WAS DAMAGED IN THE FLOOD AND YOU CAN READ ABOUT IT!
THE MARKS I FOUND REGARDING JAMES DIXON AND SONS ARE VERY HELPFUL AND EXACTLY WHAT I WAS LOOKING FOR.
HAPPY RESEARCHING AND READING EVERYONE!
SNAPPYTHING~USA*:love:

Here are those addresses in a clickable form:

http://www.silvercollection.it/silverplatehallmarksJJ.html
http://www.silvercollection.it/electroplatesilver.html
http://www.925-1000.com/dlSheffield.html
http://freespace.virgin.net/a.data/sheffplate.htm
http://www.mick-armitage.staff.shef.ac.uk/sheffield/flood.html

Hugh

Thank You Hugh for posted the addresses correctly.
Very considerate of you too take the time to help!
ALL The Best!
Snappything

Hello All,
I have never asked a question on a forum before so forgive me if I make a mistake.
I have received a hip flask from a relative. It is shaped like a small leather bound book. The book title is "Return of the Swallow". It is marked:
J. Dixon & Sons Ltd.
137
Sheffield
L91/4OZ
Made in England
(On Flask itself under corner which twists off to reveal spout)
On removable corner are the markings:
PAT APPLIED FOR
Some type of hallmark
and the # 137
Any info you can provide would be helpful.
Thanks!

Have a half pin pewter beer mug with the letter K above the Bugle on the bottom and James Dixon & Sons, Sheffied Cornish Pewter W1882/11. Made in England
New to pewter and new to this site, can anyone give me any idea how I can find out how old it is?
Thanks
Jayboo Canada, formerly England

Watcha All,
sorry to jump in on this but I could do wiv a bit of help:
I found an old multiple knife in my F-in-L's shed after he died, made by James Dixon & ? (sons I believe). It's called The Adjustable Extractor, The trade mark is a lozenge with a circle on the top point, inside the circle is I; in side the lozenge is a concave oblong with R d with 2 lines under the d, in the upper point is 17, left point is 2, right point is J bottom point is K.
Anyone help please:-)
best
Mick

check out www.jamesdixonandsons.co.uk

thanks

Watcha B,
thanks for that, I kept on putting James Dixon in my search engine but it never came up with a website for them. I'll certainly contact them, probably Friday.
best
Mick

jen13kd You asked after details of James Dixon & Sons Ltd. You can find a lot in a book titled "Made in Sheffield" ISBN 1 901587 52 5 available from Amazon price £9.95 on 26/1/2007

Hello Forum, ref James dixon and sons, I have a strage piece, whick I cannot get any info on... its a tea pot ( I think ) with support, underneath it has: in order

T next to it the trumper and banner then something I cannot make out

next line james dixon & sons

next line Shefield
next line 1000

I think its in pewter.. but not sure....

anyone got an idea???


thanks....


Garf.

Looking for info about a James Dixon Teapot. From spout to handle it is 8inches and it is approx 51/2 inches tall. It has four feet that spread up the pot in the shape of a leaf. The handle has two ornate rings around it that look like bacolite (beige colour). On the bottom it is stamped with James Dixon & Son and has various numbers on it to the top and bottom of the James Dixon.... 1 74 top and 1 458. The 8 could be a three - however the 1's are definitely upside down.

New here this may be posted in the wrong place.:help:

Hi everyone, this is my first post to this site
I have a cocktail shaker by james dixon and son , it has the trumpet and pennant on it with ep so I know its electro plated
then made in england
L2965/1,1/4pt
then
24
it is about 10inchel tall with an art deco handle,with a lid and spout which has a chain on it, it looks unused,although a bit tarnished(im not going to cleanit yet).

I bought it recently for pennies at a jumble sale and would love to know more about it if any one can help please, thank you

Hello all,
I've just discovered this post and have been learning a lot.

I too have a teapot that I am researching. But mine doesn't say "son(s)". My teapot just says DIXON&SMITH with the number 6 below the name (i've learned that is most likely the # of servings the teapot can hold) and an S above the name.
Since my teapot does not include the word SON or SONS would I be correct in guessing it's date is btwn 1811 and 1822?
The handle and finial are also an odd black which could be wood, but doesn't feel it. As for being soldered vs. screwed on, I am guessing soldered.

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.
Just having fun researching.
Karin

Have a half pin pewter beer mug with the letter K above the Bugle on the bottom and James Dixon & Sons, Sheffied Cornish Pewter W1882/11. Made in England
New to pewter and new to this site, can anyone give me any idea how I can find out how old it is?
Thanks
Jayboo Canada, formerly England
What a coincidence to come across someone posting a message that sounds like they may have a 'relation' of my tankard which is a 3/4pt 'tankard' in pewter.

I have had it for several years but today I decided to have a quick look on the net with a vague hope of finding some relevant information. I am delighted to find such a wealth of knowledge & enthusiasm at practically my 1st click.

I know I'm a newbie but a little info & guidance would be very much welcomed.

The detail on the bottom is:
K
bugle & banner
James Dixon & Sons (arched over)
Sheffield
Cornish Pewter
W1419
3/4pt
Made in England

It is one of my favourite things - it is tall and very elegant and has what I can only describe as an upside-down handle. I enjoy it every time I look at it.

I'm not a collector and have only today discovered that it was crafted by a renown company.

This may sound a bit of a silly question but has it any value (beyond being a beautiful piece in itself) and would I need to think about having it properly valued and insured?

Try contacting Dr Joan Unwin, The Archavist, The Company of Cutlers in Hallamshire. The Cutlers Hall, Church Street, Sheffield S1 .
She has access to a wealth of information regarding such matters.

Could anyone tell me the meaning of a crown and under it the letters J D on 6 pewter mugs. From reading some replys it sounds like these were made before 1811.

tap115@juno.com

Hello members,

I am new, so maybe this posting does not belong here, but I saw that you were asking and discussing J. Dixon & Sons.

I have a sugarpot / bowl (no lid) and a creamer that I love to see for there stylishness. The bottom of each has a very stylish trim with 4/5 circels above each other that becomes widener to the bottom. The sugarbowl has also two stylish ears.

It looks like the era of arts and crafts, but were so stylish that they also could from the 1920's / 1930's.

It looks silverplated, because of the " shine", but .....

I was told that it could be from the 1880-1900's and designed by / or inspired by Dresser.

The JD&S is J. Dixon and Sons from Sheffield. Thats all what I am sure about.

The signs and numbers on both bottoms are:

First row: (Vertical) EP (Horizontal)JD&S (Sort of)Trumpet/flag/key

Second row: D1815

Third row: HARDSOLDERD

Fourth row: MADE IN ENGLAND

Thereunder in the middle: (Not in a frame or so) F

I hope you could solve some questions.


If someone needed photographs of the items, I will be glad to send by mail. I did not see a possibility to show them here in the forum.

Thank you from the Netherlands, Wim

this lady - Pauline Bell is the Dixon expert her contact details are on this thread :

pbell7@btinternet.com

It wasnt the English inflation that made the cost of Silver to rise, it was two brothers either in U.S.A. or in the far east who bought up nearly all the worlds reserves just to corner the market and make the price rise which they successfully did.
All of DIXONS marks are now owned by THE SOLPRO GROUP including BRITISH SILVERWARE which is situated at WINDSOR ST down ATTERCLIFFE. When I worked at BRITISH SILVERWARE I saw the the hundreds of marks and dies that they had down Heeley and they stil had hundreds more at Windsor St.
The craftmanship of the work on the dies was top class.

Hi there ,we moved into sheafbank works in Heeley in about 2000ish and just around then british silverware moved out all the tools and most of the dies were skipped it was such a shame all the time and money that went into producing those tools wasted .we tried to get some out of the skip but were not allowed ,it breaks your heart to know what britain had and now we've got now't left,all we can do is ship it in ,mostly from china.:confused:

Now to throw a spanner into the works I have a spoon which has the following markings, from left to right.

SN (written sideways)

DIXON (which appears to be done with a letter punch that forms a cloud around the word)

A Shield containing a Bugle with a Pennant hanging from it

RESISTARN (Also within a cloud)

From what I have been able to find so far the SN stands for Samuel Neville 1799 to 1833, the Bugle mark seems to be for Dixon & Sons 1869 onwards, and I am unable to find anything on the Resistarn.

This leaves me to believe that this spoon is a recreation of an earlier design or possibly a crude knock off, could either of these be the case or is it a genuine article?

Can anyone shed any light in my direction.

Holy thread revival!

I've found out a few things about a random bit of metalware my mrs said she had, which is stamped.

ww.kenco.plus.com/images/tin_inside.jpg

I am able to surmise that the L means it was made in 1854 and that the JAMES DIXON&SONS means that it was made after a certain date but the omission of a trumpet means it was before another date. I can also see it's made with EPBM (electro-plated Britannia Metal).

What I can't figure out is the number 16 above the company name or the number 949 before the L.

I've had a look through the links posted so far in this thread and it has made for interesting reading, but I'm stuck trying to identify what this case actually is!

Here's another two (not very good) photos of it:

Front:
ww.kenco.plus.com/images/tin_front.jpg

Back:
ww.kenco.plus.com/images/tin_back.jpg

edit: btw, apologies for the lack of full url's for the images, but the spam protection on the forums prevented me from posting links directly.

My name is Lionel Clarke and I used to work for Oakes Turner on Arundel Street who were bullion dealers.I started there in the early 60's and the last of my jobs there was to delivery silver to all the little mesters in Sheffield.I can remember going to James Dixons in Cornish Place and climbing up the really steep wooden stairs to the silversmiths department.The boss at the time was called Mr.Milo Dixon,who always used to call me "young Clarke"
To identify Sheffield silver it will carry ,probably four marks which are a lion denoting it is silver,a crown or possibly a rose which denotes Sheffield,a date letter denoting when it was made and finally the makers mark,J.D & S.
Hoping this is of interest.

I have a Teapot, Sugar bowl and creamer set with the following marks

Y
Trumpet and banner
JD&S
EPBM
E934
1 1/2
scratched N
barely visible stencilled S

The interesting thing is that if family history is correct, this set was made in 1946 by Arthur Richardson of James Dixon and Sons for the silver wedding of his sister and brother in law.

JudeDue, I also have a mug and I would also like some information.

The bottom has the following

6 pointed Star
Trumpet and Banner
James Dixon & Sons (arched)
Sheffield
Cornish Pewter
W.1882/1
1/2 Pt
Made in
England

Kullgan I think the word RESISTARN just means it is resistent to tarnishing.

Hi, I was helping clean out a house after the last occupant died. It was a brother and 3 spinster sisters living alone. They all worked as nurses/medics in WW1. One thing I kept was what looks like pewter flask. On the side it says AROM.SPIRIT.AMMON. On the bottom is stamped, from top to bottom:

- a symbol that looks like a figure 8 on its side, with a vertical line through the axis.

- a symbol that looks like a bugle with flag hanging off of it and two tassels

- James Dixon & Sons

- SHEFFIELD

- 1380


Can anyone help me figure out what this is and what it is worth?

Tx
David

Hi all
Just found this forum after searching and getting nowhere for some info on a teapot I have.
The teapot looks to be pewter but I am not sure.
round in shape, what looks like an acorn sat on a leaf on the teapot lid.
The handle also has some decorative work on it.
the bottom of the teapot is stamped with...4650
James Dixon & Sons

then the trumpet with the letters H at one side and 5 at the other
Any info on this piece would be great
Would be interested to know if it is pewter and the date it was made.
Many Thanks:)

Hi all
Just found this forum after searching and getting nowhere for some info on a teapot I have.
The teapot looks to be pewter but I am not sure.
round in shape, what looks like an acorn sat on a leaf on the teapot lid.
The handle also has some decorative work on it.
the bottom of the teapot is stamped with...4650
James Dixon & Sons

then the trumpet with the letters H at one side and 5 at the other
Any info on this piece would be great
Would be interested to know if it is pewter and the date it was made.
Many Thanks:)

Contact British Silverware on Windsor St as they are the present owners of all the Dixons marks and they would probably help you. Address your enquiry to Mr J. Houghton.

Hi, i have a pewter cigarette box, lined in wood. on the front is a picture of King George VI, Coronataion May 12th 1937, on the back is inscribed James Dixon & Sons. Sheffield. Cornish pewter. L14626 and then some fine scribble 168/Q ma/t . could anyone shed any more light on this? Neil.

Hi, i have a pewter cigarette box, lined in wood. on the front is a picture of King George VI, Coronataion May 12th 1937, on the back is inscribed James Dixon & Sons. Sheffield. Cornish pewter. L14626 and then some fine scribble 168/Q ma/t . could anyone shed any more light on this? Neil.

The fine scribble could be the work of a Pawnbroker, I have an old watch and its full of scribbles from when it went into "Uncles"

hi all can anyone :help: me i have a stag with a tree behind i think it is a candel stick on the bottom it has jd & s at the side of that there is somthing cant tell what but it looks like a plane or a bird then under that there is a p then 17 26 anyone no anything about it any info would b good :confused: carnt find anything about it anywhere:help: please

Hi!!
I have huge oval pewter teatray 29inx20in(72cmx51cm). Teatray has signature: First line:97
second line(capital letters):JAMES DIXON & SONS
third line (capital letters):SHEFFIELD
fourth line:1355

Could you help me and tell when this teatray was made?


Regards Baltazar!

Hiya All,

I am new to the site and have a teapot, which as I understand it was made by James Dixon & Sons of Sheffield. I am trying to date this teapot accurately. It has a number of markings in the centre of the base as follows:

Trumpet and Banner Trade Mark (Post 1879)
JD&S (james Dixon & Sons)
EPBM (Electro Plated Britannia Metal)
4104 (Pattern No.)
5 (No of Sevings)

It appears to have a hinged, bullet shaped lid with an Ivory/Bone handle, which is held on by a screw thread and wing-nut. The main handle is metal with 2 inlaid circular bands that appear to be made of a white/opaque material. The teapot shape is a fluted ovular design and there are 2 decorative strips, each approx 1" wide, with a floral pattern that circle the pot body at the top and bottom.

Does anyone have any idea of a more accurate date of manaufacture?

Bluebear0136:help:

I am just trying to find out some information on this piece.
I have a three bottle decanter set. It is sterling (I think), it has a lable on the bottom of the decanter. The lable has two lions with a coat of arms and printed just below the coat of arms is ET MON along with James Dixon & Sons and Sheffield. On the side of the decanter is stamped with the letters DASPC? The bottles are very thick glass and look old, each has a sterling label on a chain and some marking on the back of each label. The bottle labels are Sherry, Brandy and Whiskey.

Does anyone know where to find out anything about the company and this item. It's been in the family for along time, I heard maybe back from the late 1800's. Not sure if that's right????

Thanks

Hello there jsmith1120, look at page 5 of this thread and you will find info on how to contact the archavist at the Cutlers Hall in Sheffield. I'm sure she will be able to help.

Hi,

I read with interest the information you provided re Dixon & Sons. I have two pewter tankards which I believe must be George IV based on your info. As they are marked Dixon & Son and George IV only reigned 1820 to 1830. I have described the markings below and would be grateful for any other info you may be able ro provide:-

The larger one, I would say, would hold more than one pint and has the following markings:-
Chester spelt in a circle with a number 5 in the centre. This is on the tankard in 3 places.
An oval containing a crown and the word IMPERIAL above and G & R to either side of the crown
The word Dixon & Son and the number 36 on the base.

The smaller one is about quarter of the size of the other.
It too has the Chester spelt in a circle with the number 5 in the centre. This appears twice.
The oval as above.
The word Dixon & Son and the number 71 on the base.

Neither has a lid they are both, I believe, pewter.

Thanks,
jill

[SIZE="[SIZE="4"]OK, I'M BACK TO CONTINUE ON... I GAVE YOU ALL A CHANCE - NOBODY SAID QUIT, SO HERE WE GO!
Elkington, Mason & Co. between 1842 - 1861
Elkington, Mason @ Co introduced electrotyping as a new method of production for silver plated items. Elkington & Co. exhibited at the Great Exhibition of 1851 with enormous success. (I am guessing that Electrotyping dates after Mason supplied financial backing in 1842 and before 1851).

Dates for James Dixon

1806 - founded Sheffield
1811 - became Dixon & Smith
1822 - changed to Dixon & Son
1835 - James Dixon & Sons (JD&S)
1879 - Trumpet and Banner Trademark granted

Looking at the marks:

Before 1879 - James Dixon & Sons - No Trademark
After 1879 - James Dixon & Sons -= Trumpet and Banner Trademark
JD & S James Dixon & Sons is easily mistaken for James Deakin & Sons if shown without the trademark. To differentiate between the two; James Dixon & Sons "JD&S" is always on a single line. James Deakin & Sons "JD&S" is always "JD" over "&S".

The makers mark is usually surrounded by a Small shield or border.

City Mark - Assay office mark for Sheffiield is a crown then later on a rose. If you look at the shape of the shield cartouche around the City Mark, it generally changes to match the shield around the Date Letter Mark.

Date Letter - Each of the Assay Offices uses a different letter each year. The yearly letter, until recently varied from one office to another, so it is necessary to consult a list for each particular office when dating the item.

The typeface or font, the case of the letter (I) (i) upper or lower and the style of the surrounding shield are all relevant and should be carefully compared to a list when dating the item.

If it is silver and not electroplate the Standard Mark indicates the purity of the silver. The standard mark is the Lion Passant.

Several of James Dixon's teapots have a single number on the base, 1,2,3,4, or 5. This number denotes the size of servings.

Other ways to date pots:

The highly ornate metal knobs or finials seen on teapots, date the pot from 1830 to about 1870. No metal knobs were seen prior to 1830. The bone and wooden knobs used from 1780-1830 re-appeared in similar form in 1870 but this time they were secured by a screw thread instead of being soldered into the lid.

The earlier tea and coffee pots had wooden handles. Unlike silver pots, the handles remained wooden until Broadhead and Atkin brought out their patented anti-caloric metal handle in 1840.

Up until 1800 the coffee and teapots had flat bottoms. Then ball and lion-paw and bracket feet reigned, soon to be followed by rounded rim bases. The Adam revival around 1870 saw the return of the flat base.

The shape of the pot can also help with dating. Bullet shape, lid with concealed hinges, or bight cutting are usually from the late 18th Century. Some of the 19th century teapots were covered with cuttings.

I hoped I've helped answer some of the questions out there and made it a little easier to decipher some of the marks on your item.

Please, do not hold anything I have written as fact, it is merely an overview of my research.

Also, please contact me if you have any questions I might be able to answer.

Goodnight,
Ladylikeme :wave:
PS. minimonkeych - Did this help answer your question?
:thumbsup:


JD&S

I have recently come to own a small glass flask with a pewter screw cap with James Dixon & Sons stamped into it. The top half of the flask is covered in a straw basket weave covering. The bottom half of the flask is covered in a pewter covering also stamped on the bottom with James Dixon & Sons.

I would appreciate it very much if someone would help me to discover the origins of this glass flask and it value.

Thank you, :):help:
urb2165@bellsouth.net

this place is a great find ! i have a wedgwood biscuit jar that sits on a silver base, with a top rim and handle and lid of silver. the wedgwood dates to early 1800's, but i am trying to identify the silver. it has JD in an ovalstamp then & in a six sided stamp S in a small oval then EP sideways in an up and down oval and then what looks like an oil lamp with a wide shade in a shield stamp. the underside of the lid has 13706 and 2 6 under it.
can someone help

Hi Wolfmum

I am not sure it is such a great site for getting answers, sorry! Basically there are a few people on here who know the history of the firm, but there doesn't seem to be anybody who knows the history of each of the individual items posting on here at the moment, so the thread contains lots of questions and no answers.

Maybe you could try some of the websites which have identification pages for silver marks eg.

http://www.925-1000.com/

http://www.silvercollection.it/englishsilverhallmarks.html

There is also a forum that will help find silvermarks, and which has a section for silverplate:-

http://www.925-1000.com/forum/index.php


As far as I understand it EP means Electro plated

There are some photos of James Dixon's stamps here and if you look on this same page, James Deakin seems to have a mark resembling an oil lamp, so that might be your maker.

http://www.925-1000.com/silverplate_D.html

My brother was a silversmith at James Dixons and he is 70+ I will ask him some of your questions

He worked at James Dixson and Frank Cobbs and they called him Tom CAIN.

I do hope someone can help me date a James Dixon hip flask, it appears to be plate or Britannia metal over glass and leather the marks on the base show the bugle and banner with the letter U above the bugle. Below this James Dixon & Sons Sheffield Made In England and to the right the letter S.
I do realise after reading this forum that the bugle mark dates it after 1879 but i was hoping for a more accurate date

Many thanks

Hi everyone,
I have just come across a three pint tankard with three handles. i guess you might call it a loving cup.
I would like to know what it was made for? and when it was made?
the marks are; james dixon & sons
Sheffield
Trumpet mark
6
497
( ) two brackets but horizontal not vertical
Can anyone help please
Stuart

sorry i forgot to say that it is made of pewter? and not silver.
I put the question mark because most of the info i have found says that all jd&s was brittania metal and marked BM ,but as i don't have that mark i am not sure?
Stuart

I have a Pewter teapot with the inscription as:

B
34 6
JAMES DIXON & SONS
SHEFFIELD
4663

CAN YOU TELL ME ANYTHING INFO ON IT? AND IF ITS OF ANY VALUE?
THANKS YOU.

Hi I have just found this forum and joined.
I live in Australia but my parents came from Yorkshire and I have been here in Australia for 39 years.
It has been interesting reading all the threads.My question is I have an elaborate epergne with three Gryphons?
On the underside of the base is a castle/turret above the bannered trumpet and JD&S EPBM and 8111.I have also found a scratch mark X and letters O and a C or G.Would love to know the date of this piece and any further info.
I have noticed that most questions have been about fairly plain pieces and was wondering if James Dixon made many ornate pieces.

I am new to this Forum,
I have been collecting James Dixon & Sons artifacts for quite a few years. I am presently after 10 years of research on my Dixon Ancestors, now in the process of writing the Family History. I have many examples of James Dixon & Sons work, from several different parts of the world. These items include Brittania Metal. electroplated metal, ceramic jugs with lids made by the Firm, Powder Flasks and Pellet Flasks in leather, Brass and Copper. a leather covered facsimile book which has for a title 'A pleasant surprise', it being a liquor flask. I also have a lidded jug of Nickel Silver, made for 'Tiffanys' New York by the Dixon Firm. There are many pieces of information still missing re this Firm's Marks. I also have several Books on the Firm and a Catalogue marked' Plating Room Copy' not to be taken away.
I do see that there are some misconceptions on the list in interpreting what things mean. For instance the James Deakin & Son Mark is not a lamp although it could be taken for that, it is actually a 'shop Bell'.
The letters 'epbm' indicate the process of electro plated base metal. Brittania metal is a superior form of Pewter. Brittania metal having no lead content. It is also harder & less brittle then the old pewter. The formulae for ordinary Brittania Metal from Bradbury's Book, 'History of Old Sheffield Plate p. 496 is as follows:
210 parts tin, 12 parts of Antimony, 4 parts of copper. These proportions vary very much according to Bradbury and in fact, he goes on to say that
"Mr Lennox Dixon of the Firm J.Dixon & Sons, states that in mixing their metal the following ingredients are used".
448 part of tin, 20-60 part of antimony, 5 parts of copper. In both cases lead is most carefully excluded.
If I can be of any assistance on specific questions, feel free to ask. I am sure I don't have all the answers, but I do have a lot of information re this Firm. Wizardsilver.

Hi, can anyone help date my James Dixon tea set? It's enscribed as a prize for a company called Hadfields who were in business from the early 19th century. Description as follows:
Bugle & banner
JD&S
EPBM
8796E
4
Teapot: 6" high, this is the enscribed item, decorated with swags & bows, metal handle with shell shaped thumb rest, non removable metal finial.
Cream Jug: 3" high, decorated with swags & bows, original gilt interior.
Sugar bowl: 3" high, decorated with swags & bows, original gilt interior.
Really quirky little item but I've only been advised of a makers date of between 1830-1930 & would much appreciate it if someone could narrow this down for me, thanks.

Hi Bear 0194,
I did just write a reply to your request, unfortunately I don't think it was posted. I will try again. I would like more information re the teapot and accompanying items.
1) what kind of spout does this item have? is it ornate or simple
2) are the Ribbons and Bows Hand Engaved, or machine engraved.
3) was the design embossed, hand or Machine punched?
4) what kind of feet are on the items?
5) what is the basic shape of this Teapot and accompanying pieces?
I can give you some information about the items and definitely can say that the items were in fact made by James Dixon's Firm. It is difficult to date these items without more information, of course a photo of the same would have been even better... although I realize that this is not possible on the Forum.
I can say that the fact that the teapot has a knob which is an integral part of the lid and not screwed in place, definitely dates this item(s)after 1840, and probably even after 1850. Jack L. Scott's book 'Pewter Wares from Sheffield' is a good resource for this information. The 'Gilded' interior suggests an even later date. The use of the letters JD&S, confirms in the presence of the Trumpet & Banner- which was registered in 1879- that the item was likely from the period after this. It should be noted that the trumpet and Banner was also used from 1830-1834, although not in the same format as after it was registered... This early Mark was extremely rare, and ocurred in the Reign of William, the Mark was used on spoon handles. I have seen some information which suggests that my 2Xs Great Grandfather, used the initials JD&S, (this has not been proved to my satisfaction) his name was John Dixon and he was a nephew of James Dixon. However, John's father my 3Xs Great Grandfather, was also a Brittania Metal Manufacturer in or around Sheffield from around 1820-1832. From Jack L. Scott's book he says that John Dixon's Frim was unrelated to his uncle James Dixon. What is known is that John did have a Business as a Brittania Metal Manufacturer from 1848-52 in Sheffield, and for at least part of that time he may have been associated with his uncle's Firm. Wizardsilver

Hi, thanks for the quick response! I'm not sure this is a great description but I will do my best. The spout is ornate, I don't know about the engraving but I'm guessing it's done by machine yet the design looks hand done. They have 1 flat foot each, the set is very curvaceous, almost round as you look down on the tea pot & bowl, the sugar bowl has 2 large handles both with the shell shaped rests & the jug is short & rotound with 1 large handle also with the shell rest & a broad spout. I'm guessing it's from nearer 1930 but wasn't sure with the link to Hadfields, thanks.

hi, just been looking at my teaset again, the more I look at it the more victorian it looks, it's just in such fantastic condition that I'm thinking it's older than it probably is. Does anyone know how to post pictures so you can take a look?

Hi,
Maybe if you could tell me the answers to these questions, I may have a better idea.When you say that the items have 1 flat foot each, are you speaking of a pedestal with a round base? Is the handle made of one piece of metal, or is it ornate (have a design on it, embossing etc) and does the handle have spacers? these were put in to stop the heat from the teapot reaching the handle, which would have been very hot, if it was just made of one piece. Finally, what shpe is the finial? can you describe it? does it have an animal or fruit or flower on it, is it spherical, rounded,plain etc? Sorry I need to be able to picture this item. I do however agree with you because of what you have already told me that the item was likely made after 1900. The quality was probably much better later on, as it took a long time to make great articles... Wizardsilver. I will in the meantime look in the Catalogues I have and try and identify this item(s).

Hi, yes they have a pedestal with a round base, the hand is metal with 2 spacers with the shell shaped "thumb" rest, the finial is raised up from the lid with a rounded knob topped with a smaller rounded knob. Sorry I'm not very good at describing it I just wish I could send you a photo of it. I have been in touch with the sheffield assay office, they are getting back to me on Tuesday

Hi,
I did find a very similar design to the one you describe and its shown in a James Dixon & Sons Catalogue from 1901 onward. There is an actual teapot showing a teapot with a garland around the body of the teapot, with a swag and bow design such as you describe. It also mentions that the items are made ofher finest silver or silver plate. The design with the garlands while similar is not as ornate as you describe and while the handle is metal, it does not have the shell design on it. It also mentions a gilt interior.
There is on the page before this a very rotund design very similar to the one you describe, it is called a 'Hotel Design'. I suspect that your particular set, may have been made from a composite of the two. I say this because as it was made for a specific purpose "Hadfields' the design may have been placed on a design already in existence, but with engraving added. It was not unusual to custom finish items for customers. I would say that your items probably originate from a time frame of after 1901-1930. I hope the Assay Office can help you further with this. I would be interested to know what they have to say on the matter. I would also suggest trying to find an item in the Sheffield Newpspapers from around that time, to try and find what the award was for which this piece was made. I do have a piece, a presentation dish, made by Dixon's for another Firm. It also wasn't unusual to make an item for a rival silver Firm or personage, because the Firm it was made for may not have been engaged in making the same kind of silver items as the one needed. Good luck with your search, Wizardsilver.

Hi, thanks for looking. I'll let you know whwt the assay office has to say. In the mean time I'll try research Hadfields in greater detail. I still think it's a piece from the time bracket you state.

I based the time frame as well on the Gilt interiors, they used these a lot in the early 1900's. I have several sets dating from that time frame with the same configuration. It will be interesting to see if the Assay Office concurs. Wizardsilver

Hi Wizard

You seem to know alot about James Dixon so I'm hoping you can help me
as well.
I have this teapot thats been passed down through the family.
If you look at my avatar its the picture of the teapot.
Its about 8" tall 4 claw feet and a flower finale.
Under neath is inscribed:
B
43 6
JAMES DIXON & SONS
SHEFFIELD
4663

The B is very small lettering and is hard to see but it is clear
that it is there. Can you tell me what metal this is and the date.
Thank you
Troy

Hi Troy 7,
I believe this 'teapot' is most probably made of 'Brittania' Metal. I say this for the following reasons.
The configuration of the printing on this piece as I read your letter is as follows:
B
43 6= I am not not clear what this number means.

James Dixon & Sons = Firm Name
SHEFFIELD = Address of Firm
4663 = Pattern

The B may or may not refer to the designation Brittania metal, or could designate a Workman's initial.
The reason why I suggest that this is Brittania Metal rather than Silverplate of any description, is the absence of the letters 'epbm' which stand for electroplated base metal. Sometimes Pattern numbers were not used on all goods. The reason for this is unclear.
The configuration of the name and the word 'SHEFFIELD' as written on this item (how they appear on the piece) probably dates this to between 1851-79 this according to Scott's book, 'Pewter Wares from Sheffield'
Just as a matter of interest totally unrelated to this email...
I have a Tea Urn, which is dated 'James Dixon & Son' which suggests a date of 1830-34. What is most unusual about this piece is that it is silverplated, and the initials EPBM are clearly incised on the item. It has never been suggested before that the Dixon Firm a) held a Patent for this process that early, or b) that they were electroplating at all, that early on...The silverplate is now peeling a little in a couple of areas. The 'Patent Mark' on this piece, suggests that James Dixon's Firm had the right to silverplate from a much earlier date than has originally been thought.
I should say that I do not consider myself a Professional Appraiser, and can only give information which I believe to be true. My knowledge has been gained by accumulating many Books, samples of the Dixon Firms' work, and obscure references over quite few years. It is inevitable that I may be mistaken from time to time... any opinion which I give, should not be considered to be inviolate. I have seen many changes in information thought to be fact, over the years, as new information becomes available.

Thank you Wizard.

I see your from Ontario as well. I'm in Kingston, thanks again.

Troy

Hi Troy 7
Small World, we live in Ajax, although I was born and bred in Yorkshire. My mother was born in Sheffield...your welcome to the information. wizardsilver

Hello Wizardsilver,
Just wondering if you could give me a bit of info on what I think is a EP butter dish Marks are EP stamped sideways, JD&S, trumpet on the same line, under that the numbers 7620/1, it consists of three pieces 1. the base a bowl about 3 1/2 cm high and 18 1/2 cm across with a lip around 2 cm and the inner part forms the bowl (guess to hold ice). 2. flat plate about 14cm across. 3. a domed lip 14cm across and 9cm high including the knob which is made of ebonized wood I think and is held on by a silver screw. It was won as a trophy by my late grandfather and is inscribed with the date 15/4/21.
Any info much appriciated
thanks Debbie

Sorry guys, but I'm another inept searcher for the truth...
My wife owns a 5 inch Electro plate saucer (coaster) of which we'd like to know the approximate value (lowly though this may be)
We have identified it as EP, made by James Dixon and Sons after 18whatever, as it has the trumpet on, but...

Beneath all the marks noted above there is a V or possibly Y followed by 1691.
I'm guessing that this indicates the model, pattern or catalogue number, but does anyone know where I might find further information, to narrow its identification, and valuation, further ?
Thanks
MonsieurBOZ

Wizard, - I'm interested to see you're writing my (our) family's history!!! My grandfather grew up at Stumpelow, his father being the last James, I think. My father has written a family tree, and my cousin has done a more up to date job on it. I would be interested to hear how you get on! my own knowledge on this is not brilliant - rely on my father for info as needed.

Typing this for the second time since i lost my first post...GR

anyway, Hi There!

I'm curious as to whether or not bear has heard from Assay? Seem's he and I are the only people who have the joys of having this beautiful set, and have no information on it!

My mother just inherited this set (although her set is 4pc, cream mug, sugarbowl, tea pot and coffee pot), and this is the only site that has any information!

I'm curious as to why my set has a different hallmark to bears.

The hallmark is as follows:

Fleur De Lis
James Dixon & Sons (written in an arch formation)
Sheffield (between the two ends of the arch)
Trumpet Stamp
E.P.B.M
8796E

Now ask me if I can find the same hallmark anywhere online. I know what the info in the hallmark means, electro plated and pattern nummber etc, So now I am confused, because one post on here says the name was shortned in to J D & S in 1879 and that was when the trumpet was introduced, apart from the rare one between 1830-1834...Why must antiquities be so complicated?!

Anyway, there ya have it, oh I also have a salad fork and spoon with the hallmark [J] [D] (&) [S] with a trumpet, which is inside a crest, beside it. No other marks are on the items. Any ideas on the year?

Any information will be greatly appreciated :)
Cheers

I am an amateur, so here goes:
I have a metal teapot about6 inches tall it has a metal handle of a floral design with some sort of band at each connection to the pot. It has a round base and a finial in the shape of a flower; it seems to be screwed to the lid which is attached to the pot with a hinge. The inscription on the bottom says James Dixon on the first line with &Sons on the second line. Above the inscription in a semicircular fashion is a 35 (the five being much lighter) M 3. underneath the inscription are the numbers 8 6 7. What would you anticipate the age to be?

Hi all, I am new to this site and was wondering if anyone has any information on a hip flask in brown leather and glass with the trumpet and j d & s. It also has on the cap a crown with underneath a large letter 'W'

Many thanks for any info.

Regards

Hello, I came across this site while trying to figure out more about my fathers James Dixon and Sons hip flask. It looks like it is Silver and has the bugle mark with James Dixon and Sons under that and made in england with the numbers 47 and then 6ozs. Can anyone tell me a little more about this? It is not leather and silver, nor is it silver and glass. I cannot find any info on this. I have pictures, but I don't know how to post them. HELP!

Thanks,
Charlottemom

I also have a piece of James Dixon, which I am trying to date.
They are fiddle pattern sugar tongs approx 5 1/2" in length and they are stamped with a small 'c' in a circular cartouche - JD&S in seperate squarish cartouches/shields and gothic lettering - Bugle. There are no other marks. I believe the presence of the bugle makes them post 1979, but when did it become law to use EP or similar, as the absence of such marks should help me date them more accurately...and could they be Sheffied Plate? :help:

I have a silver cup that has:
Bugle (with hang down)
JB&S
EPBM
8727

My father told me that it was the cup he drank from as a boy. He was born in 1936. I'm just curious if that is accurate, and if I could learn more about when this cup was actually made. Any information would be appreciated! :)

I have a silver cup that has:
Bugle (with hang down)
JB&S
EPBM
8727

The EPBM stands for "Electro-Plated Britannia Metal". The trade mark may be that of Joseph Billam (1885-1942) who had a plating business on Eldon Street in Sheffield. The Local Studies Library may well be able to provide information..:)

Jinglejangle - the bugle is a JD&S symbol - but I would want to see it to confirm, in case there were copies. My cousin is more clued up on this than I am, so I will ask him if you want more info.
Rob (Dixon)

In reply to Lychap, your tongs could simply be nickel-silver if they don't carry the letters E.P. Although Dixons were always the top end of the trade is it conceivable that they made NS items. The letters A.B. and C. were traditionally used to denote the weight of the blank used. Your C could mean that they are lightweight.
When the nickel content was high say up to 30% the flatware can remain supprisingly bright.
I'm afraid your punt about 'Sheffield Plate' is way off the mark. It involves a thin sheet of silver fused to a base of copper and used for holloware. It died a death when Elkingtons of Birmingham took out the patent for electro plating, I think in the 1840s. Then the embarassed Sheffield manufacturers were obliged to pay him for a license to produce something which they had previously dismissed as a poor imitation not worthy of them.
Isn't that absolutely typical of stick-in -the -mud Sheffielders and I'm one !
Bob.

Hello,
Hopefully there is someone on here that can help me! I have just bought my husband a hip flask for a present and would like to know a little more about it to tell him. It has a glass body, a red leather top, a metal stopper and metal cup in which the bottom of the flask fits into.
On the bottom of the metal cup is the following:
In the middle - James Dixon & Sons with Sheffield directly underneath.
Above that - a 'U' shape indentation
Below 'Sheffield' - Made in England
To the right of the middle wording - an 'I' shape indentation
To the left of the middle wording is 3/16 Pt (the 't' being underlined)
I have trawled through several forums and websites looking at markings and what they mean/year etc. but cannot find anything like this? I hope I haven't picked up a fake which is probably my luck! But it is a lovely looking piece so my husband will be thrilled whatever the outcome! If you have an answer for me, could I also ask that you jot down how to clean it as well!?
Kindest Regards
Mandy Kavanagh

Sorry - meant to say that above the James Dixon & Sons wording is a bugle with a flag hanging down (underneath the 'U' symbol)

So another James Dixon piece not marked EPNS ? I assume it is silver plated, what colour is the metal ? Did the person who sold it to you infer that JD items were valuable ?
I think they are only interesting to we Sheffield wrinkleys because JD was one of the cornerstones of our industry along with Walker & Hall, Joseph Rodgers and the departed rest.
Bob.

Hi Mandy - I guess your flask doesn't have a hallmark? If so, then as RobertDSmith wrote, it is probably silver plated. Otherwise from your description it sounds a bit like this one (http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/1911-SHEFFIELD-SILVER-JAMES-DIXON-FAUX-CROC-HIP-FLASK_W0QQitemZ280434997748QQcmdZViewItemQQimsxq20 091207?IMSfp=TL091207197002r32729) that was recently offered on eBay. The hallmark on the eBay flask indicates the purity (sterling silver), and the year letter 't' shows that it was made in 1911..:)

Thanks to both of you - RobertDSmith and hillsbro. I wasn't looking for monetary value and no, the seller did not infer it was worth anything. In fact I only bought it because of the red leather top - it looked a bit different to any I've seen his hunting/shooting friends carrying around.
The metal is silver coloured so I will go with your assumption of silver plate. History of this nation's dying industrial years is important (or should be) to all of us, especially seeing as we have no industry in this country anymore. It is sad and a shame.
hillsbro - yes it does look a bit like the one from ebay but the leather patterning is much smaller so definitely not croc (and the silver is very much shinier than my one (hence asking how to clean it!).
I am sure my husband will be pleased on Christmas morning, whatever the history!
Kind regards
Mandy Kavanagh

Hello again Mandy - if your flask resembles the eBay one, then although the metal parts are evidently silver plated rather than solid silver, the flask might be of a similar age if Dixons were using this basic design around 1911, though I suspect that similar flasks were in production for some time. You would need to ask an expert. Here (http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/-_W0QQitemZ280433272695QQcmdZViewItemQQimsxq2009120 4?IMSfp=TL091204237001r9954#rpdId) is a silver-plated Dixons flask that was sold on eBay recently. For cleaning the silver surface, I can recommend Goddard's (http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Goddards-long-term-silver-polish-cleaner-quick-easy_W0QQitemZ270399254748QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUK_Je wellery_Watches_JewelleryBoxes_Supplies_CA?hash=it em3ef50d30dc) silver polish whch I find to be excellent, but any kind of silver polish should be OK. I'm sure the flask will make a nice present for your husband (I am almost tempted to drop a hint to Mrs hillsbro....:P)

That's a lovely hipflask you have there Mandy. Hills is clever putting the links to these pictures, it's all too much technology for me I'm afraid.
Thinking of things not being marked EPNS, I have just set our table ready for lunch to-morrow with some Du-Barry I bought at the closing down auction at British Silverware on Queen's Road in19--- whatever. The last third of the 20th.C is just a blurr, I must have been working too hard.
Anyway the dessert spoons are simply marked Mapin and Webb, no reference to their weight or composition. Simply the name sufficient for you to know that you would never need to buy any again in your or your children's lifetimes !
Well over 20 pennyweights of silver per doz on desserts I believe, we had never heard of microns then.
Yes Mandy, very sad ! and the worst thing is the younger generation have no understanding of the workmanship nor do I believe they care.
Was anyone else at that historic auction, rummaging through the teachests ?
Sorry if I have invaded James Dixon maybe we should start a B.S. thread.
Have a nice Christmas all,
Bob.

I have a EPBM James Dixon & Sons figurerine. It has a B, an asterik-type symbol and a trumpet with hang down, plus the numbers 2585. It is about 4 1/4" tall and is a nude Pan-like boy playing two pipes and sitting on a footed stool. I think it is about 80-100 years old juding by previous reseach into James Dixon and the ages of my parents. Does anyone have any information about this figurerine? I do have pictures but can't seem to attach them to this email. Cheers, Annie56

Hello all, I'm from east London and about a year ago I found a Dessert spoon in a local lake with the word DIXON on the back and a trumpet and banner mark which I understand is James Dixon & Sons. The front of the dessert spoon has 'GR VI' under a crown which I would think is King George 6th (the Queen's dad).

Does anyone know anything about this - was it a thing done for his coronation and mass produced or something like that or was it James Dixon & Sons the official cutlery maker for the King?

Just wondering as coincidentally, he visited this area to see the local hospital and my romantic brain imagines him popping over to the lake to have a picnic and dropping his spoon!!!!

He he - I can but dream.

Hello Legal, I'm sure you are !
I love finding old spoons too, the first thing is to flip it over to make sure it's not solid silver, you know, little lion and the Sheffield crown. Otherwise I expect EPNS. The GR V1 on the front is a mystery if it were a coro' spoon it surely have the date 1937 also. I don't believe that JD were appointment to the King then, it was more likely Mapin & Webb or Walker & Hall.
Also is it Old English, Rattail or Fiddle-end ? I hate to sound picky but I like to get a mental picture. I'm a bit of an archaeologist so to me I would look for its condition, like how much plate is there left on it ? has it had a lifetime stiring mixing bowls etc.
Cheers, Bob.

Thanks bob,

I'm afraid I'm a bit of a wannabe archeologist but in reality I don't know anything about metals. I know that there is no hallmark other than the DIXON and the tiny Trumpet and banner motif.

I would say that all of the Electro plate has gone leaving the metal a sort of rose gold colour although this is heavily covered in decades of slime leaving the metal looking like a really old coin. I'm a bit scared to try to clean it too much in case I damage it in some way. Not that I think its worth anything, just don't want to destroy it.

The GR VI is a real funny one. Its definately in the regal style and there is certainly a crown above it but I have looked at coronation cutlery and it is all very fancy and decorative. In comparison this spoon is really understated. It simply has the GR IV and crown on the front and DIXON and the trumpet banner plus a sort of raised and rounded 'm' at the very top of the spoon on the back.

It is almost what you would expect from a brand name. I remember seeing some of the Titanics cutlery which had a simple white star motif on them and nothing else.

I understand what you say about the official cutlery suppliers to the King and wondered if it might have been cutlery from another hospital = possibly called king George Vi Hospital - but then I wondered if it would be allowed to use the royal crest.

Its certainly intriging and I will try my best to place a photo on here if I can but I'm afraid I'm a bit of a technophobe really.

Anyway, thanks for taking the time to answer - I'm afraid i'm not too familiar with the terms you mentioned (rattail and all that) are they the shapes or the finish or something like that? Anyway its all a learning curve so hopefully update this site soon.

All the best

John

hi have had a look through this thread and now know why I can't identify the marks on some fish knives and forks we inherited, it is confusing at the best of times.

the marks are jd & S then what looks like a christmass tree in a shield

would any one have any idea what these marks are?

Hiya. Just wondering if anyone can help me identify two peices of james dixon ware that i have found. One seems to be a coffe pot and is marked James Dixon & sons, little trumpet sign, sheffield, epbm, e966, 3, made in england. It is taller and thinner than the other peice but aside from that they seem to be from the same set. The other is a round teapot and has the same marking except the 3 is a 4. The handles are wooden, and attatched with a pin. The knobs on the top of the lids are also wooden.
Any ideas when they may be from, and also of value?
Thanks in advance, Steph:)

Hello Steph, presumably your 2 pieces are not sterling silver or you be describing the hallmarks. Also you do not mention E.P.N.S. or E.P.B.M. but I suspect they are plated Also the ebony fittings would indicate plate, if sterling they would more likely be ivory.
Is the base metal showing through, look where most wear would take place if yellowish then a nickel-silver base if black (not to be confused with the tarnish) then it is Britania Metal.
These kind of pots have little or no value. I'm afraid we Sheffield wrinklys just like to hold them for a split second to recall the city's wonderful past.
Bob.

Thanks Robert:)
Yes they are marked E.P.B.M. although fortunately they are in lovely condition and have no metal wear. With a bit of a polish they should come up as new, although i still plan to sell them so will leave that to the buyer. Luckilly here in Australia stuff like this does make a little bit more than in the uk, as they are not so common and we dont have the great car boot sales and stuff that you guys have to find as many treasures. But i'm not planning to retire of the profits or anything, lol.
I appreciate the infe, should give me a little to go on when listing, although it would be great to work out an age of these pieces if anyone knows.

I like the sound of your tea and coffee pots Steph, typical of Dixons to put a good oz. of silver on each. Can you get a good rouge based polish where you are ? nothing abrasive.
As for date, the shape and design would be a good clue. You say 'round' that begins to sound like the 30s. Earlier B.M. is often heavily chased as it was easier to engrave elaborate patterns on the softer metal,
I didn't realise you were down under ! I would double the price you could get here, let's face you could'nt just walk doun the street and buy another !!
Bob.

Unfortunately, the links don't work (at least, for me). Could you post new links to the photos? / Malheureusement, les liens ne fonctionnent pas (au moins, pour moi). Pourriez-vous fournir de nouveaux liens aux photos ?

Here are the urls

http://i61.servimg.com/u/f61/15/01/11/80/img_3010.jpg

http://i61.servimg.com/u/f61/15/01/11/80/img_3011.jpg

An interesting piece and looks very early. I would say it was pewter (etain) the 1/4 pint mark is what you normally find on measures or pewter tankards.
Some expert will know. Sorry my schoolboy french is not up to it !
Bob.

I am no expert but I agree with RobertDSmith that it is an interesting piece and early, perhaps c. 1840-1850, and made of pewter, the 1/4 being the measure and 1650 the pattern number. / Je ne suis aucun expert mais je suis d'accord avec RobertDSmith que c'est un article intéressant et qu'il est vieux, peut-être c. 1840-1850, et fait de l'étain. La fraction 1/4 est la mesure et 1650 le nombre de modèle.

Thanks hennypenny for the new links!

merci, merci pour ces infos très précieuse

que signifie la marque en N ainsi que le W que l on peut distinguer au dessus

merci aussi a google pour la traduction

bien à vous

que signifie la marque en N ainsi que le W que l'on peut distinguer au dessus....Translation of the above: "What is the meaning of the 'N' and the 'W' that can be seen above... ('James Dixon')".

Can anyone help?

Just a guess: the 'N' in a square is exactly like the "year letter" as used in hallmarks on silverware. If such "year letters" were also used for pewter, it means that the item was made in 1856. / Une conjecture: le 'N' dans un case ressemble exactement une "lettre de l'année" ce qui est trouvé dans le poinçon sur l'argenterie. Si les "lettres de l'année" étaient aussi estampés sur des articles d'étain, cette lettre 'N' signifie 1856.

See here: http://www.silvercollection.it/englishsilverhallmarksSHE.html and here http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u219/twigmore/Sheffieldyearletters.jpg

Hiya. Me and my partner have just bought our 1st place together. It is in Cornish Place. The old factory of James Dixon & sons. It was converted into apartments 4 yrs ago. We are both very interested to find out more about the history of the building and we would love to acquire some original James Dixon & sons silverware so we can bring it 'home'. If anyone one has any old pictures of Cornish Place or any info, please let me know. Thanks Jen x x x

hi,ive got two pieces of James Dixon,epbm,one i think is a milk jug,and the other a sugar bowl (with two handles),if you still looking for pieces then drop me a line,,im wanting £30 for the two, many thanks,tom

Hello! after registering on this site, i'm finally ready to ask the question i have in mind.

I found what looks to be an old foodwarmer -type lid for a plate... like the kind they utilize on the railways in the past. Nothing like cold eggs and toast in the morning - apparently this may prevent it?
Established that the hallmark is James Dixon; EP with the following letter over all the hallmark symbols. Y2654L
Would appreciate any assistance on how to determine how old this silverplate is... in the meantime I'll continue using it to keep my morning eggs warm...

This sounds like a cloche or domed plate cover, as still used in top hotels and some gourmet restauants. Now made in stainless steel of course. I doubt that it will be able to be dated unless someone has an archival Dixon's catalogue and can trace the reference number that you have.
I guess they were made more or less unchanged from about 1885 until 1935. Interesting to me would be its condition, how much plate there is left on it and what the mounts are like (ribbon or bead etc.) This kind of thing was made by many manufacturers in Sheffield and Birmingham but strangely James Dixons are regarded with affection by many of us probably because they persevered in business long after others had gone to the wall.
Anyway are you really in Vancouver, or just a relative of the Captain from Kings Lynn ?
Bob.

Please tell me about a teapot my son purchased recently marked EPBM 2606 6 75 and underneath James Dixon Sheffield England.

I think it's fair to say that in the late 19th. and early20th.C. Britannia Metal based holloware was regarded as the poor man's plate. It was cheaper and easier to produce than a nickel-silver body but at the same time could be engraved and shaped more elaborately which suited the taste of the times.
It could be that Dixons put a bit more silver on than others and maybe used ivory finials and handle stops. Where the plate will have worn off it will show dark grey or black showing through. At antique fairs etc. they can be usually quite dented because it is such a soft metal.
Bob.

I think it's fair to say that in the late 19th. and early20th.C. Britannia Metal based holloware was regarded as the poor man's plate. It was cheaper and easier to produce than a nickel-silver body but at the same time could be engraved and shaped more elaborately which suited the taste of the times.
It could be that Dixons put a bit more silver on than others and maybe used ivory finials and handle stops. Where the plate will have worn off it will show dark grey or black showing through. At antique fairs etc. they can be usually quite dented because it is such a soft metal.
Bob.

Thanks Bob.The teapot was purchased for $A20 from an opportunity shop in Melbourne two months ago.Would you know the current value and what the 2606 6 75 mean?Is this a 6 cup teapot? Is 75 the year of manufacture? If so, what year?:help:

Dear ???? (elone) In the U.K. your teapot would have no value at all as it has no precious metal intrinsic value. As for down-under I dare say there are people wanting a bit of old England.
I can't help you with the series of numbers, they are probably catalogue numbers or even a batch number. As for dating, we can usually only go on the body shape or style of decorative engraving and relate it to what was in vogue at the time. Many shapes went unaltered for decades particularly the straight sided 'Hotel Ware' which were produced in silver and EPNS right up to the start of WWII and in some cases beyond.
I hope I don't sound too dismissive ! I'm sure if I was in Oz and saw a James Dixon teapot I would say "Look what I've Found !!"
Bob.

Dear ???? (elone) In the U.K. your teapot would have no value at all as it has no precious metal intrinsic value. As for down-under I dare say there are people wanting a bit of old England.
I can't help you with the series of numbers, they are probably catalogue numbers or even a batch number. As for dating, we can usually only go on the body shape or style of decorative engraving and relate it to what was in vogue at the time. Many shapes went unaltered for decades particularly the straight sided 'Hotel Ware' which were produced in silver and EPNS right up to the start of WWII and in some cases beyond.
I hope I don't sound too dismissive ! I'm sure if I was in Oz and saw a James Dixon teapot I would say "Look what I've Found !!"
Bob.
Thanks Bob for your invaluable help. Well, we live and learn. I must admit that we got quite excited when we found the teapot, especially when we saw the markings not realizing that EPBM was metal.
I have several silver holloware marked EPNS pre-dating WW11 and also flatware and crockery. I'll have to get them valued: hopefully they're worth more than EPBM.

After searching through my fathers belongings I have found an old trade catalogue entitled James Dixon & Sons Silversmiths Sheffield. The contents are for pieces dated 1890-1910 but no date on the actual catalogue. A friend has suggested we break the catalogue up & mount each page in a frame for a hallway/kitchen etc but I dont want to do this if the catalogue is valuable or of historical importance. Total number of pages 361. Does anyone have any information on this hard back book or details where I could take it too for more info?

Hi LolaBish - welcome to the Forum! I'm not familiar with the catalogue, but a quick search on the "ABEBooks" secondhand books website brought up this book (http://www.abebooks.co.uk/servlet/BookDetailsPL?bi=3699045471&searchurl=an%3Djames%2Bdixon%2B%2526%2Bsons%26bt.x %3D0%26bt.y%3D0%26sts%3Dt) dated 1910 that seems similar (maybe the same?) and is being offered by an antiquarian bookseller in Amsterdam at £350.

That's an interesting find Hilsbro, it just shows what a value these old catalogues have !
Lola will be tempted to put it up for sale but the noble thing to do would be to offer it to the Central Library Archive Dept on Surrey Street.
But Lola, it would be a shame to split it just for decoration although I can see the temptation. If it were mine I would just keep it for old times sake but would my son or grandson be interested in it ? I doubt it !!
Now if it were scanned and put on line !! What a resource that would be !!
I second Hilsbro.. welcome Lola.
Bob.

Hi Bob - yes, the Local Studies Library (http://www.sheffield.gov.uk/libraries/archives-and-local-studies) or Sheffield Archives might like to have the catalogue, though it may well be that they already have a copy. The bookseller's price might be a little "optimistic" but it is clearly a highly collectable item. I quite agree that it would be a shame to dismember the book. I have occasionally sold similar items via eBay (such as a bound volume of The Engineer magazine of 1898, and an 1890s stamp catalogue). The advantage of this is that they go to people who really value them (unlike, perhaps, my trendy young grandchildren...)..:|

Thank you so much Hilsboro and Bob for your replies. Im totally new to forums and it has been so nice to receive your advice / comments. I think we may go via the ebay route and find someone who appreciates it. I agree its such a lovely book and would be a shame to pull it to peices. He has so many old books which he has collected over the years, far too many to keep.

Thank you Hilsboro & Bob, so nice of you to reply. I think your right it would be a shame to break the book up. It should go somewhere it will be appreciated. Will probably do the Ebay route, he has a whole wardrobe full of these type of books.

Many thanks again for your time.

first time on this site,you guys are great,learnt so much about james dixon and sons,wondered if you help me at all,i got small bowl with JD&S hallmark with trumpet and banner,numbers under hallmark Y3317,EP facing down before the J.there are no other marks on it.the bowl is plain with a rim,and 4 inches wide and 3 inches high,any info would be very welcome.thank you

Hi

I have been given a jug by my mother that I understand has been handed down from my grandparents.

It doesn't have as many marks on it as some of the others here so I am wondering if anyone can help me identify it's date... I think it is pewter but not really sure as there was talk in one particular message about a hard alternative... sorry I can't remember what it was and can't find it now.

My jug is only about 5 inches tall and is beautifully simple with a generous lip and a raised rim base.

The marks on the base, in this order over four lines are
57
James
Dixon & Sons
3368

I would be grateful of any information.

Kind regards

hi, i appear to have stumbled upon this forum while researching some sugar tongs i have recently aquired and was wondering if anyone can help with any information about them, i have kind of established through another site that they are j d & son from the hallmark, it has j d & s then on the end and sideways are the letters ns. the letters are gothic if thats any help. they have a fiddle shape and also on either side is a pattern.
really hope someone can help.

hi, i appear to have stumbled upon this forum while researching some sugar tongs i have recently aquired and was wondering if anyone can help with any information about them, i have kind of established through another site that they are j d & son from the hallmark, it has j d & s then on the end and sideways are the letters ns. the letters are gothic if thats any help. they have a fiddle shape and also on either side is a pattern.
really hope someone can help.

N.S. stands for NICKEL SILVER so its likely they are electro plate.

Hi tink1975 - your sugar tongs may be similar to those described in post #142 on Page 8 of this thread. As Cardew noted, the NS indicates that they are made of nickel silver (an alloy of copper and nickel, usually also with some zinc). If they were marked EPNS this would indicated "electro-plated nickel silver". Only items made of precious metals have an actual hallmark, and so what appears to be a hallmark will actually be a maker's mark designed to resemble a hallmark. Here (http://www.google.co.uk/imgres?imgurl=http://www.ascasonline.org/DENNISROGERS2.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.ascasonline.org/newsLUGLI62.html&usg=__rccBmbl7JVfn_LJiwRieuh2Ahw0=&h=256&w=650&sz=12&hl=en&start=60&sig2=1-mUxeh4QBFycp8WECSbSQ&zoom=1&tbnid=4jB0aCynNruNRM:&tbnh=82&tbnw=207&ei=2LweTv-zH4qr8QOC7-SrAw&prev=/search%3Fq%3D%2522j%2Bd%2B%2526%2Bs%2522%2Bns%26hl %3Den%26biw%3D1272%26bih%3D846%26tbm%3Disch&itbs=1&iact=rc&dur=520&page=4&ndsp=24&ved=1t:429,r:15,s:60&tx=74&ty=37) is a similar imitation of a hallmark which includes "EP" - this is on an item made by James Deakin according to the description.

thanks hillsbro. I did see that post thanks. I am assuming that as my tongs dont have the trumpet/bugle/horn they are pre 1879? and they dont have ep but ns. I think i have probably discovered all i can really, without finding another pair of the sugar tongs or finding a picture. thanks again.

Hi,

I have a candleholder marked EP on its side then J D and S with a trumpet? and banner with the numbers 2 3 7 underneath and .22oz stamped on it. Can anyone tell me anything about this please?

Look forward to hearing any information you may have on this piece.

This is where Lola Bish's old catalogue would come in handy, 237 maybe a pattern number and you could get a date. I wonder if she has sold it yet ?
The mark of .22 of a troy ounce (if that is what it is) could refer to the weight of silver of the plating. I have only seen plated cutlery marked with pennyweights (dwt) per dozen never on holloware. We used to regard 1 troy oz. to be a decent plating for a standard teapot, so .22 of that would be about right for a candle holder but maybe not if it is a tall candle stick.
Bob.

Hi Bob! Thank you for your quick reply. I am so sorry to be so ill informed but how would I find out about Lola Bish's old catalogue and who or where would I contact?

Many thanks again
Frances

If you scroll to the top of this page entry 182 you can ask her yourself by e-mail, I'm sure she wouln't mind.
Bob

I am not sure if this is the correct way to contact Lola Bish ( I am a bit of a technophobe!) but here goes!

Lola, Bob suggested that I contacted you re my candleholder, it is one that looks as if it may have had a glass funnel over it at one time and not a wee willie winkie style! It has EP stamped on it its side and then the letters J D & S with the trumpet and banner .22 oz and the numbers 2 3 7 stamped underneath with a sort of triangle underneath that.

I wondered if you still had the book and could tell me what all this means please. Do hope this gets to you!

Many thanks
Frances

I do not know that what I have is in deed a James Dixon & Sons piece, it has maybe a bone and or plastic handle 2 pieces, said to be for serving fish, gotten in England in a case, The case is mostly white with red fabric where the head of the knife & fork rest the knife and a fork has some etching on each, it just has on one line JD & S with EPNS next to it, I know what those 4letters mean. Is there any way "with out" a hallmark to know what and or who made this ? Thank you for any incite you may have on this. Pat

Pat, it is most likely that the fish carvers you have are by James Dixon, they were quite commonly made in Sheffield in the first half of the 20th. C. and before. It was one way the hand engraver could show off his skills on the broad blade and they always looked so spectacular in the frequently velvet lined cases. A favourite wedding present in those days.
They most surely will have a ferrule at the top of the handle which was often sterling silver even though the blade and fork would be plated. It is worth having a closer look at yours for the very small hall-mark which would then give you a date of manufacture, you will need a magnifying glass !
The handles could be ivory or, more likely, xylonite. The regularity, or absence, of the grain in the handle is the clue, and when slightly warm the xylo gives off a faint smell of camphor but be careful, xylo is extremely flamable !
Good luck with that,
Bob.

Thank you Bob for the reply, I will take them to someone with a better eye then I have, I still can not find a hallmark of any kind even using a magnifying glass, and they do have a ferrule at the top of the handle, I noticed the handles have a grain in the handle, does that indicate that they are indeed xylonite? Once again thank you very much. Pat

The hallmark on the ferrule would be obvious, though small, if it had one. The handles also sound like xylonite, it was deliberately laminated to look like the grain of natural ivory, never very convincing.
Just polish them up then dream up some occasion when you can poach a whole salmon in a kettle then show off with a flourish and a bit of old Sheffield.
Bob.

Hi

I recently bought a jug from a charity shop and would really welcome any info that anyone can give me please.

It has a tapered corrugated design over the whole body of the jug.
It has a metal handle
It has a hinged lid with an ivory or cream ceramic piece screwed into the lid.
It looks like its silver although the spout is missing a layer of something.
It has an etched design around the top and the base.

The stamp on the bottom:
1st line: The figure: 5
2nd line: JD & S, a crown, and a stamp with EP
3rd line: I 363

I really hope that someone can help me shed some light on my new purchase.

Thanks !!!

This sounds like a very typical britannia metal hot water jug and if it were replated would be a nice decorative piece.
In the late 18th. and early 19th Cs B.M. was widely used as a basemetal for holloware because it was much softer than nickel silver and leant itself to elaborate engraving and fluting (corrugations) as you describe.
The crown is always an indication of Sheffield whether used on cutlery, plated holloware or of course on the sterling hallmark.
The numbers will simply be catalogue or pattern numbers, it is a difficult piece to date more closely than about the turn of the last century (I should say last century but one now !!)
Regards, Bob.

Thank you so much, Bob, that's a great help. It's all so interesting !

Investigating in Internet about a few antiques I inherited from my parents via an Aunt married to a Californian dealer, I came across your posts, which I find extremely interesting.
I have a Georgian style coffee pot with the following marks on the bottom: the last ones are difficult to discern, being faint scratches.
W
5 61
JAMES DIXON
& SONS
BRITANNIAMETAL
ELECTROPLATED
51048

No 24
Chl-

I’m afraid I haven’t the time to dedicate to cleaning it, so it’s gone dark – when my mother had it, it was bright silver. It is 25.5 cms high, and weighs 853 grams. Can you throw any light on this, and has anyone any idea if it’s worth anything? I would like to enclose a photo, but not sure how to!

I'm afraid, Jakki, that your B.M. coffee pot is virtually worthless, at least in this country. It is not surprising that the silver plating has now worn off as they never put much on in the first place. No matter how much you clean it you won't get anything better than dark grey as Brittania Metal is very similar to pewter in composition.
It was the poor-man's EPNS at the time, at the turn of the 19th.C. The fact that Dixons spell out the base metal in full on the base is quite interesting. It is more often abbreviated and may indicate an early date for its manufacture.
The faint scratches that you mention could indicate that it was re-plated or repaired at some time, a common practise.
Cheers
Bob.

I have written 2 books on the firm of James Dixon and Sons and would be happy to give further information if interested folk would like to contact me off line pbell7@btinternet.com

Oh, thankyou, Bob - I never expected such a swift reply ! Just my luck, although having read about the various stages of the firm, and the materials they used, etc., it's more or less what I expected. Still, it's very decorative, and I can always pretend, can't I!! At least Mother and Dad died with the happy, if mistaken, thought that they had bequeathed a silver Georgian coffee pot.....tis a hard loife.....Thanks again - Jakki.

In my second book about James Dixon and Sons the first chapter includes the history of the firm with dates.I mention this because it covers a lot of the questions people are asking. There is a later chapter about trademarks etc with dates and also a chapter on teapots. one on the building=Cornish Place, one on flasks. You can download it as a PDF from a website called lulu.com which is an on line publisher for £2. Put the title or my name in their search engine and it will take you to the correct page. There are 20 chapters all together. It is called 'A rare and special collection James Dixon and Sons, Silversmiths, Pewterers and Makers of gun accessories'. 6 generations of my family worked for the firm. I also transcribed the Reminiscences of James Dixon (3rd one to manage the firm) written in 1933 for the Sheffield Telegraph covering his life from the 1850s. He records a lot of local and social memories but also his travels in Europe.
Any proceeds from the book go to the charity the Myasthenia Gravis Association. The best source of James Dixon products today is Ebay. The firm that holds the patents etc mostly exports goods to the Middle East or does specialised commissions. Any problems with web site contact me
Pauline C.Bell
pbell7@btinternet.com

I have been given a large hip flask with the following markings engraved on bottom

Half Moon Symbol
Below that is the Trumpet and Flag
Below that is "James Dixon & Sons"
Below that is "Sheffield"

To the right on the side are the following marks
"1419 ET"
and below is "24 ozs"

To the left on the side is "made in england"

From other posts I believe that this flask is Electrotyped (ET). But I have no idea how old this item is. Does anyone have information on the markings on this flask that may help. I have seen an identical photo of the flask shown on a website selling Historical Americana,
ttp://historicalamericana.com/antiques.asp but don't understand why it would be listed as historical americana when it is marked as being of british origin.

The image is the 14th item down on the page.

Any help would be appreciated

Hiya. Me and my partner have just bought our 1st place together. It is in Cornish Place. The old factory of James Dixon & sons. It was converted into apartments 4 yrs ago. We are both very interested to find out more about the history of the building and we would love to acquire some original James Dixon & sons silverware so we can bring it 'home'. If anyone one has any old pictures of Cornish Place or any info, please let me know. Thanks Jen x x xhi i have a number of old catalogues of the silver and plated cutlery from james dixon and sons dating back to 19 th century.if you would be interested i could meet up and let you look through them i worked at the factory where u now live

hi i have a number of old catalogues dating back to the 19 th century of james dixon and sons.if you were interested i could meet up and let u look through them.i could also give u a bit of info u might not know about. i worked at the works for about 10 years

Hi I have a pair of fish servers that have J D & S stamped on, each initial is in a seperate box, there dosnt seem to be any other markings would be gratefull for any help in identifying when it was made please.