Hand Book to French Hall Marks on Gold and Silver Plate. Containing 372 stamps

This book has attempted to provide a sketch of the various makers' marks and hall marks used throughout the continent, as well as a sketch that may prove useful in identifying marks used at any time and in any country. In the Middle Ages, the laws affecting the fineness of precious metals were enforced more strictly, and the system of marking all dishes by manufacturers was applied more precisely than in later times. In many countries and states, the sequence of the letters of the date and, indeed, all signs ceased after the middle or end of the 18th century until recently, when they were revived. This book introduces countries such as Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Greece, Holland, Hungary, Italy, Norway, Portugal, Russia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and Turkey. Each country section provides useful information, as well as examples of stamps. The book also contains information about different standards of gold and silver.