What is pewter? The term pewter covers a broad range of tin alloys. English pewter, for example, was strictly controlled and at least 92% tin and ideally free of lead and nickel. European pewter is typically stamped with at 92 or 95 to designate the degree of tin. Modern manufactures typically use about 91% tin, 7.5% antimony and 1.5% copper. From the 15th century onwards, the composition of English pewter was carefully protected by the Worshipful Company of Pewterers in London. The Company required that the finest quality English pewter contain at least 94% tin. Lead was removed from tin completely in 1974 by British law. Pewter is consider to be the fourth most precious metal and dates back to ancient Rome. Although older pewter may contain lead, today’s pewter is safe to drink from. Pewter containing lead forms a grayish-black patina on the surface of the item. The amount of darkening and type of oxidation can vary depending on environmental differences but most people leave the patina alone since it adds to the antique affect and protects the underlying pewter.

How do I care for my pewter? Hand wash your pewter. Placing it in the dishwasher places it at risk for scratching and some dishwasher get way to hot. Pewter has a lower melting point than most metals (450 degrees) and even though you aren’t going to melt it you can structurally harm it. Pewter also becomes pitted from acidic foods so always wash your pewter after use and do not leave over or near open flames which can melt it. Pewter does not tarnish so it does not need to be cleaned frequently like silver. In fact it should only need to be cleaned a couple times a year with a very soft cloth and polish. Pewter can be polished with something as simple as vinegar, salt and flower and then rub in soft gentle circles until the shine returns. Stronger polishes can be used to take out low lying scratches.

Are there different types of pewter? One popular variation of pewter is satin pewter which has a little bit more of a rougher appearance. Satin pewter has a grainy appearance and does not shine. You can use warm water and a mild soap to clean this type of pewter. You may want to use fine steel wool every so often to regain its original appearance. Oxidized pewter is another variation and usually has a darker finish and antique look. Warm water and a mild soap is all you need to care for this type of pewter.

What do the marks mean on my pewter? The marks are typically called touch marks with pewter and they indicate everything from tin content and quality to the manufacturer and their professional affiliations. Two of these known high quality marks are the crown with the rose and the ore angel Michael holding a sword in one hand and a balance in the other which dates back to the 18th century. Unfortunately the angel mark was never regulated so even companies that use a thin pewter coating will sometimes use an angel stamp. Many companies and associations have developed their own marks to establish high quality. It may be something as simple as the appearance of the company logo like SKS Zinn in Germany or the initials of an associations like ABPC (Association of British Pewter Craftsmen.) Wentworth Pewter, for example, has its own five part touchmark which can be found on almost all products manufactured. ARW is their initials, a 92 or a 95 denoting tin percent, ABPC or a Sea horse to signify superior weight, Crossed Arrows to locate their city coat of arms and EPU 301(European Pewter Union.)

Old Newbury Pewter - Old Newbury crafters are the direct decendents of William Moulton (1617-1664) who brought the silversmithing craft to New England.

Preisner Pewter is an excellent pewter manufacturing company located in Rochdale, MA, USA produceing a wide variety of products.

Woodbury Pewter Manufacturer of high quality, lead-free Pewter since 1952 in Woodbury, Ct, USA. Woodbury produces both traditional and contemporary designs and sells directly only to dealers. Woodbury Pewter is 92% Tin, 6% Antimony and 2% Copper.

Royal Holland is a highly sought after collector brand for both their old and new pewter. It is manufactured by Daalderop & Sons in Tiel, Netherlands and is identified by the letters KMD inside of a crown.

Sheffield England is a location synonymous with pewter. Sheffield Pewter features the Sheffield Coat of Arms which is many arrows crossing in the sky. Sheffield Pewter includes some of the oldest and most sought after pewter. Shefield may include the BPC symbol insuring the highest quality pewter.

The following links will provide examples of some of these touch marks and more information on pewter terms and styles. Marks on American Pewter- http://www.pewtercollectorsclub.org/marks.html Marks on British Pewter- http://www.governmentauctionsuk.co.uk/pewter.html Pewter Styles - http://www.almosteurope.com/ABavarian/Products/Klein/Information/aboutpewterEN.htm Glossary of Pewter Terms- http://www.pewtercollectorsclub.org/glossary.html Check back frequently as we regularly buy, sell and auction pewter.