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    Silver

    Sterling 925, Britannia 958, silver-plate (EPNS) and caring for tarnish.

    Typical UK second-hand price

    Value depends heavily on maker, age and design; scrap value is modest

    Standards

    • Sterling silver — 925, the most common.
    • Britannia silver — 958, softer.
    • EPNS / silver plate — base metal with a thin silver layer, not hallmarked as silver.
    • Fine silver — 999.

    Tarnish

    Silver tarnishes in air. Clean gently with a silver cloth; harsh dips remove antique patina collectors value.

    Before you buy

    • Distinguish hallmarks from 'EPNS' or pseudo-marks.
    • Have any high-value piece checked by an independent valuer or jeweller before paying. JewelleryTrader does not authenticate items.

    Frequently asked questions

    Does '925' mean it's hallmarked?

    A '925' stamp alone is a sponsor/fineness mark; UK hallmarks also include an assay office mark.

    More gold, platinum & silver guides

    Gold carats and coloursPlatinum and palladiumUK hallmarking explained

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