John M. Ward tray-hallmark experts?

[JeremyW]

Hello- I recently picked up this silver-plated serving tray/trophy on Ebay. And yes, I'm aware of the seller from across the pond that has been selling a ton of baseball related engraved items that are fake. This item came from a Maryland seller. I'm hoping someone can help me with dating the hallmarks & all opinions are welcomed as far as the trays legitimacy. Thanks, Jeremy

[Michael B]

The marks do not seem to correspond to any of the silversmiths in Sheffield who made silverplate. The star and heart do not seem to show up on the list of marks used by any of the silversmiths. See http://www.silvercollection.it/dicti...rademarks.html The 'lion salient', the lion with both front paws raised, seems to be facing the wrong way. I also notice that this piece appears to be soldered onto the tray. My wife and I own quite a bit of silver from the 1780's through the 1940's from many different makers (Tiffany, Joseph Hemming, Josiah Williams & Co). Every piece, including the silverplated serving trays, have the makers marks stamped into the piece. The small piece with the makers marks also appears to have much less wear than the surrounding tray. I try to be a bit skeptical, but it would be great if the piece was fine. You may be able to find an antiques dealer who strictly deals in silver.

[1880nonsports]

I have quite a few sterling vestas and cigarette cases as well as other smoking acoutremont. I have sold a bit of silver plate as well. As I believe was mentioned VERY unusual for there to be a soldered on piece to demarcate plate or sterling. I know there are SEVERE penalties for counterfeiting hallmarks on silver - plate I don't know anything in that regard. I think my book only covers sterling HOWEVER if you are interweb handy - there was a site I found with EVERY hallmark - it was 10 years ago or thereabouts. Can't help. Hope you find it's what you expected.

no guarantees whether written or implied.

[Aquarian Sports Cards]

Don't like the fact that the hallmarks are on an added piece of metal and not directly on the body of the piece.

[JeremyW]

Thanks for the responses. I have been doing some research & haven't had any luck. Maybe when I have it hand I'll be able learn more. It was fairly inexpensive & will make a nice display piece. Thanks again.