Lion Symbol on Silver or Jewelry
A lion stamped on silver is most often the English lion passant — a lion walking left with one forepaw raised — which has marked sterling silver (92.5% purity) at English assay offices since 1544. A lion standing upright on its hind legs is the lion rampant, the Scottish sterling mark applied in Edinburgh and, historically, Glasgow.
Lions also appear in other national systems: a lion's head was used in some continental European marks, and lion figures feature in Belgian, Dutch, and Scandinavian marking traditions with different meanings. The pose, frame shape, and accompanying marks are what identify the system — an English lion passant is almost always flanked by a town mark, date letter, and maker's mark.
If the lion stands alone with no other marks, treat it cautiously: single pseudo-hallmarks were widely used on silverplate and imported wares to imitate the look of a full English hallmark.
Marks featuring a lion
- UK Hallmark SystemJewelry hallmark
The UK hallmarking system is one of the oldest and most comprehensive consumer protection systems in the world. British hallmarks certify the type and purity of precious metals and are applied by one of four assay offices.
- What Does the Lion Stamp Mean on Silver?Stamp meaning
A lion stamp on silver is the 'lion passant' — the traditional British hallmark confirming that a piece meets the sterling silver standard of 92.5% pure silver. It has been used since 1544.
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Frequently asked questions
Does a lion stamp always mean sterling silver?
No. The English lion passant within a full hallmark set does indicate sterling, but lone lion stamps were often applied to silverplate and imports to imitate it. Look for the accompanying town mark and date letter.
What is the difference between a lion passant and a lion rampant?
The lion passant (walking) is the English sterling mark; the lion rampant (rearing upright) is the Scottish sterling mark applied in Edinburgh. Both certify 925 silver, but they identify different assay traditions.