American Silversmiths and Their Marks: The Definitive (1948) Edition (Dover Jewelry and Metalwork) [Paperback]

Stephen G. C. Ensko (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: March 1, 1983 | Series: Dover Jewelry and Metalwork

For serious connoisseurs of American gold and silver ware, this rich and definitive directory lists over 3,000 early American silversmiths, 1650-1850, and their identifying marks. It includes biographical details and shop locations whenever possible, plus maps of the great smithing centers (Boston, New York, and Philadelphia) and 226 photographs.

Product Details

• Paperback: 287 pages
• Publisher: Dover Publications (March 1, 1983)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0486244288
• ISBN-13: 978-0486244280
• Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.4 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 10.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #138,778 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #14 in Books > Crafts, Hobbies & Home > Antiques & Collectibles > Precious Metals

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

50 of 50 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Misleading Title, January 1, 2000

By 

warren hamer (New York,NY) - See all my reviews

This review is from: American Silversmiths and Their Marks: The Definitive (1948) Edition (Dover Jewelry and Metalwork) (Paperback)

Not until you open the book to the first chapter do you find out that the marks are limited to the period 1650--1850. No marks after 1850.

14 of 15 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars A very useful reference, March 19, 2000

By 

Laura Haggarty (Northern KY USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: American Silversmiths and Their Marks: The Definitive (1948) Edition (Dover Jewelry and Metalwork) (Paperback)

For the time period covered (1650-1850) this is a very useful, almost exhaustive reference. I turn to it when I need to identify a hallmark, and find the illustrations to be very helpful. I thought it was a good buy.

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars worth the price, October 19, 2001

By 

C. Rogers "carrellee" (Dallas, TX United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: American Silversmiths and Their Marks: The Definitive (1948) Edition (Dover Jewelry and Metalwork) (Paperback)

Although limited in periods covered (stops at 1850), this is a handy, easy to carry reference. Kovel's may be more extensive, but the additional info is often not what you need in the middle of the antique mall checking out a possible purchase. I find I use both, write notes in both, and have many pieces I know are American and I can't find the marks in either. So, what the heck, for ten bucks it's worth having with you BEFORE you buy.