Silver Hallmarks on Scottish Dirk’s Scabbard
 

I’ve checked the books that I have and several online sites, but haven’t been able to identify the silver hallmarks on this Scottish dirk’s scabbard . Can someone point me in the right direction.

The photos are copyright (c) 2015 by Dana K. Williams. All Rights Are Reserved

Hi Dana,
Edinburgh 1895, sorry I can't determine the maker.
Regards,
Norman.

The hallmark formation would imply TJ silversmiths in Edinborough around 1900.
But no silversmiths there at that time have used such poor quality stamps..
The marks are a fake..
Sorry but that's true..
spiral

Thomas Johnston C1900 on a dirk mount. http://www.silvermakersmarks.co.uk/M...Edinburgh.html

Thanks Norman McCormick, and spiral. I've found some examples of Edinburgh marks at www.silvercollection.it (see below). Those on the scabbard are close, but not exactly the same.

It looks like the "O" in an oval would be 1870-71. Do I have that wrong Norman?

From your comments I understand that your dubious of the marks spiral. Other that their "poor quality" is there any other reason? Do you think the dirk is a fake, or were fake contemporary marks being used?

Does anyone else have an opinion?

Edinburgh hall marks at that era were usually at this clear..

http://i48.tinypic.com/2vbkm13.jpg

Even in a bad focus photo...

WOW! Thanks so much Norman.

I'll add that www.silvermakersmarks.co.uk to my list.

Hi Dana,
Definitely 1895 and not a fake as far as I can see.
Regards,
Norman.

I'll take your opinion into account spiral, but I've seen some poorly struck marks from other places that are probably right.

Ok, I must admit Ive seen dubious marks that were true myself. And its certainly not my area of study... :shrug:


Apologies if my sceptical view was incorrect... :shrug:

Ive probably just seen to many dubious items over the years...

spiral

All's well that ends well. :)

Thanks for your input too spiral. It is always a good idea to be skeptical if something doesn't look right to you.

Having lots of examples to look at and opinions to consider are two of the reasons this forum is so useful.

O yes... bit embarrassing though!:D

But always best if one realises ones barking up the wrong tree to accept it though....

Otherwise one just digs oneself a bigger hole..;)

spiral

Ps. leaving the markings behind...

what a wonderfull carved handle ! simpel and elegant.