Possible Method of Reading Worn Hallmarks
Posted: Thu Dec 13, 2007 3:31 pm
I came across this interesting entry in an old Georgian almanac:
OLD COIN INSCRIPTIONS
To read an inscription on a silver coin which, by much wear, is become wholly obliterated, put the poker in the fire; when red hot, place the coin upon it, and the inscription will plainly appear of a greenish hue, but will disappear as the coin cools. This method was practised at the Mint to discover the genuine coin when the silver was last called in.
I wondered if anyone has tried this with worn out hallmarks, and if so with what results.
Trev.
.
OLD COIN INSCRIPTIONS
To read an inscription on a silver coin which, by much wear, is become wholly obliterated, put the poker in the fire; when red hot, place the coin upon it, and the inscription will plainly appear of a greenish hue, but will disappear as the coin cools. This method was practised at the Mint to discover the genuine coin when the silver was last called in.
I wondered if anyone has tried this with worn out hallmarks, and if so with what results.
Trev.
.