Symbol guide

Minerva silver mark

A Minerva silver mark uses a helmeted head for a French guarantee device; a maker’s initials and symbol sit in a separate lozenge-shaped punch.

Recognising this device

Traditional Minerva marks use 1 for the first 950 standard and 2 for 800 silver. The maker’s separate lozenge contains initials and a device. Keep the small grade numeral and the outline with the head profile.

What to check next

Copy the sponsor initials and fineness beside the device. If a date letter is present, match its case, lettering and surround to the identified office or national system. Keep each separate punch visible in the comparison photograph.

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