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- Newcastle Assay Office
* Assay office
Newcastle Assay Office: hallmarks, history, and town mark
Operated 1702-1884. Earlier guild-based assay history dating to the 14th century. Three-castles mark distinguishes from Edinburgh's single castle.
Published May 30, 2026
Quick facts
- Operator
- Newcastle Assay Office (closed)
- Location
- Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
- Founded
- 1702
- Status
- Closed 1884
- Town mark
- Three castles
About the Newcastle Assay Office
Operated 1702-1884. Earlier guild-based assay history dating to the 14th century. Three-castles mark distinguishes from Edinburgh's single castle.
The town mark
The Newcastle Assay Office strikes a distinctive symbol — Three castles. 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.
* Frequently asked
FAQ
- Q. Where is the Newcastle Assay Office?
- A. It is based in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom. It is run by Newcastle Assay Office (closed).
- Q. Is the Newcastle Assay Office still operating?
- A. No. It closed in 1884, having operated since 1702. A piece bearing its mark therefore predates 1884.
- Q. What hallmark symbol does the Newcastle Assay Office use?
- A. Its town mark is three castles. 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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