Antique Victorian Sterling Silver Napkin Ring, Chester 1897

A late Victorian sterling silver napkin ring hallmarked in Chester in 1897. The piece has a substantial cylindrical form with ornate raised scrollwork borders along the upper and lower edges, creating an attractive contrast with the plain central band. The front is engraved with the script initials “F.H.”, adding a personal historical detail.

The hallmarks include the lion passant for sterling silver, the Chester assay mark and the date letter “O” for 1897. The maker’s mark is present but rubbed and cannot be identified with confidence.

DETAILS

• Item: Antique napkin ring
• Origin: Chester, England
• Date: 1897
• Period: Late Victorian
• Material: Sterling silver
• Silver Purity: 925 silver
• Hallmarks: Lion passant, Chester assay mark and date letter “O”
• Maker: Maker’s mark rubbed and unidentified
• Decoration: Raised floral and scrollwork borders
• Monogram: Engraved initials “F.H.”
• Diameter: Approximately 4.2 cm
• Weight: 31.1 grams

CONDITION

Very good antique condition with surface scratches, patina and age-related wear consistent with use. The maker’s mark is rubbed, while the principal silver hallmarks remain visible. Please review the photographs carefully for the full condition.

COLLECTOR CONTEXT

Chester silver is particularly appealing to collectors because the assay office closed in 1962 and its hallmarks are encountered less frequently than those of London, Birmingham or Sheffield. This late Victorian napkin ring is a decorative example of English table silver, with a clearly identifiable Chester hallmark and traditional engraved monogram.

Please review all photographs carefully, as they form part of the description. We are happy to provide further details or images on request.