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Birmingham Assay Office: hallmarks, history, and town mark

Established by Act of Parliament 1773 alongside Sheffield, lobbied by Matthew Boulton. Historically the largest UK assay office by volume.

Published May 30, 2026

Quick facts

Operator
The Assay Office Birmingham
Location
Birmingham, United Kingdom
Founded
1773
Status
Active
Town mark
Anchor

About the Birmingham Assay Office

Established by Act of Parliament 1773 alongside Sheffield, lobbied by Matthew Boulton. Historically the largest UK assay office by volume.

The town mark

The Birmingham Assay Office strikes a distinctive symbol — Anchor. This town mark identifies where a piece was assayed, so spotting it on a ring, chain, or piece of silverware tells you which office tested and guaranteed its metal content.

Visit / official record

1 Moreton Street, Birmingham B1 3AX

Official site: https://theassayoffice.co.uk/

Sources

* Frequently asked

FAQ

Q. Where is the Birmingham Assay Office?
A. It is based in Birmingham, United Kingdom — 1 Moreton Street, Birmingham B1 3AX. It is run by The Assay Office Birmingham.
Q. Is the Birmingham Assay Office still operating?
A. Yes. The Birmingham Assay Office, founded in 1773, is still assaying and hallmarking precious metal today.
Q. What hallmark symbol does the Birmingham Assay Office use?
A. Its town mark is anchor. That symbol identifies the office where a piece was tested for purity, so you can use it to trace where the item was assayed.

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