Collectors and custodians of hallmarked historical objects
Our experts are ready to help you find the perfect solution whether it’s hallmarking, analytical testing or valuations,
Independent valuations for collectors, custodians and institutions responsible for precious metal heritage
Hallmarked historical objects represent cultural, artistic and financial value. From antique jewellery and silverware to ceremonial and commemorative items, accurate and authoritative valuation is essential for responsible stewardship.
Birmingham Assay Office provides independent valuation services for hallmarked historical objects, supporting private collectors, museums, heritage bodies, trusts, estates and institutional custodians. Drawing on over 250 years of expertise in hallmarking and precious metals assurance, our valuations combine technical knowledge, historical context and market understanding delivering trusted.
Your challenges...
Owners and custodians of hallmarked historical objects face increasing responsibility to:
- Understand the true value of historic precious metal items
- Interpret and authenticate UK hallmarks and historic standards
- Support insurance, probate and estate administration
- Maintain accurate records for collections management and governance
- Demonstrate due diligence for trustees, insurers and stakeholders
- Protect culturally and financially significant assets
- Navigate changing market conditions for antiques and heritage objects
Independent, authoritative valuation is essential to informed decision making.
How Birmingham Assay Office supports you...
Expert Valuation of Hallmarked Objects
Our valuation specialists assess hallmarked historical objects with reference to:
- Precious metal type and fineness
- UK hallmarking marks and historic assay standards
- Age, craftsmanship and condition
- Rarity, provenance and historical significance
- Relevant market comparables
Each valuation is tailored to its intended purpose and supported by clear professional judgement.
Valuations for Insurance, Probate & Estates
We provide purpose specific valuation reports for:
- Insurance valuations – defensible replacement values
- Probate and estate valuations – compliant reporting for executors and legal professionals
- Trusts and charitable collections – supporting governance and stewardship
Reports are suitable for submission to insurers, solicitors and financial advisers.
Collections, Heritage & Custodial Reporting
We support custodians responsible for collections of hallmarked objects, including:
- Museums and heritage organisations
- Churches and ecclesiastical bodies
- Local authorities and civic institutions
- Private and family collections
Valuations assist with cataloguing, asset management, conservation planning and long-term oversight.
Authentication & Hallmark Expertise
As one of the UK’s Assay Offices, Birmingham Assay Office offers unrivalled expertise in:
- UK hallmark identification and interpretation
- Historic hallmarking systems and maker’s marks
- Distinguishing genuine hallmarked items from later reproductions
Providing confidence in authenticity alongside value.
Get in touch
If you are a collector, custodian or institution responsible for hallmarked historical objects, Birmingham Assay Office can support you with independent, authoritative valuation services.
to discuss valuations for hallmarked historical and heritage objects.
Why choose Birmingham Assay Office?
- Independent Authority – One of the UK’s Assay Offices
- Heritage Expertise – Over 250 years protecting precious metal standards
- Hallmark Specialists – Deep knowledge of historic UK hallmarking
- Trusted & Impartial – No commercial interest in buying or selling items
- Recognised Reports – Accepted by insurers, legal professionals and institutions
Our role as guardians of hallmarking standards underpins every valuation we provide.
“Birmingham Assay Office’s valuation expertise and understanding of hallmarked historical objects gave us complete confidence in the accuracy and authority of our reports.“
Representative from
Global Jewellery Retailer
Contact us
Birmingham Assay office
0121 820 0773
Address
1 Moreton St, Birmingham, B1 3AX