I am confused about the crown symbol as it looks different from the Sheffield crown hallmarks I've seen. It has lines or crosshatches within the crown and a cross on top of the crown. I know the E + C over P stands for Edwin Charles Purdie and that he used this mark in London and Chester. I also know the lion passant represents .925 sterling silver.

The pitcher also has etched grapes and vines on it. The item is in good to excellent condition, with no dents. It has a small 3/4" scratch on the side near the top. I have polished it since the photos were taken and there are still a few discolorations that I couldn't remove.

I would like to know more about the crown mark and the items worth in today's market, as well as the rarity of this item if possible. I'm also confused about why the #0696-C is inscribed on the bottom and whether or not that diminishes it's value.

Please see the pictures I've included.

Thanks so much for your help.

Juli

Bassett "Versailles" Dining room table with 3 leafs, 6 chairs (2 arm chairs & 4 side chairs), china cabinet & buffet.

3 Gumbo spoons, 4 salad forks, 4 long and skinny forks, 4 table spoons.

All from the same pattern.

Victorian cup and saucer - strong geometric design, buttery yellow interior slip with gilding curious cup and saucer, with no makers mark but the diamond style british mark that I've evaluated and using the info at oldandsold.com, I'm able to date this to 1876, which I find odd given the simple, geometric style of this set. I have another cup/saucer in the exact same style that is a pale blue, and I'll have to check the date but they are very close to this set. The pair are in excellent condition, no chips or cracks whatsover, in a very lovely translucent china. There is a slight bit of rubbing of the gilding on the exterior edge of the handle (not shown), but rim gilding is excellent. Here are some photos:

Picture 1

Here is a good view that I copied of the mark on the bottom

Picture 3

Picture 4

Sorry for the hi-res shots- any thoughts, ideas, are greatly appreciated!