Antique William IV Sterling Silver Grape Scissors | London 1830, 80g

Antique William IV Sterling Silver Grape Scissors | London 1830

A beautiful and rare authentic William IV period sterling silver pair of grape scissors, crafted for the finest formal dessert services.

The piece features elegant, classically proportioned handles leading down to smooth, blunt-nosed cutting blades — specifically engineered for cleanly snipping woody grape stems without bruising the delicate fruit. The dual-grip loop design provides a substantial, well-made feel in the hand, showcasing the premium gauge of silver and exceptional heavy craftsmanship typical of early 19th-century luxury dining flatware.

Grape scissors of this quality and period are genuinely rare collector's pieces — a wonderful addition for serious silver collectors, historic dining displays, or as a sophisticated antique gift with nearly 200-year-old charm.

Hallmarks

The official statutory hallmarks are split across both loops to protect the integrity of the silver during stamping — a standard practice for specialist flatware of this era:

• Maker's Mark: Naturally softened and faded over time due to generations of handling — the shallow stamp is no longer visible
• Assay Mark: Uncrowned Leopard's Head — London Assay Office
• Fineness Mark: Lion Passant — guaranteed sterling silver .925
• Duty Mark: Sovereign's Head facing right — William IV duty mark certifying tax paid
• Date Letter: Lowercase 'p' in shield cartouche — datable exactly to 1830

Specifications

• Material: Solid Sterling Silver (.925)
• Weight: Approx. 80g
• Length: Approx. 6⅛" (155mm)
• Design Style: Classic smooth-shanked handles with ornamental central pivot rosette and blunt-nosed blades

Condition

Excellent antique condition with wonderful character consistent with nearly 200 years of history. We describe condition honestly so you know exactly what you are buying:

• The official assay office hallmarks remain distinct and highly legible, though the shallower maker's initials have naturally faded over generations of handling
• Minor surface scratching and light natural character marks from gentle use and handling over the generations
• No splits, deep pits, or structural compromises — the central pivot assembly remains perfectly tight and sturdy with excellent cutting tension
• The scissors have been gently polished to showcase their bright, lustrous mirror-shine while preserving original period details

Please inspect all photographs closely to verify condition details — the item pictured is the exact piece you will receive.

What's Included

• William IV Sterling Silver Grape Scissors, London 1830
• Luxury black presentation box
• Anti-tarnish tissue

Shipping

Sent via Royal Mail Special Delivery — fully tracked, insured, and signature required on delivery.