Pair Of Silver Britannia Bank Of England Commemorative Dishes

Item Description

A pair of silver commemorative segmented Britannia dishes, 1694-1994, decorated with a border of laurel leaves, hallmarked Sheffield 1994, maker Christopher Lawrence, weight 129 grams.

Representing a fascinating piece of late twentieth-century British silver design, these commemorative dishes are to be offered at our upcoming specialist Jewellery, Silver, Watches and Coins sale on Wednesday 17th June. Combining the rarity of Britannia silver, the significance of the Bank of England's tercentenary, and the craftsmanship of a leading British silversmith, they are likely to be popular with collectors.

Britannia Silver: The Higher Standard

Crafted from Britannia silver, these commemorative dishes represent one of Britain's most prestigious silver standards. Containing 95.8% pure silver, Britannia silver surpasses the 92.5% silver content of traditional sterling silver. Introduced by Parliament in 1697, the standard was intended to discourage the melting down of silver coinage by requiring silversmiths to work with a purer alloy.

Although the Britannia standard remains in use today, it is encountered far less frequently than sterling silver, making modern Britannia silver pieces particularly desirable to collectors.

Celebrating Three Centuries of the Bank of England

These dishes were produced in 1994 to commemorate the tercentenary of the Bank of England, marking 300 years since its foundation on 27th July 1694. Established to raise funds for the government during a period of conflict with France, the Bank of England would grow to become one of the world's most influential financial institutions and a cornerstone of Britain's economic development.

The tercentenary was celebrated nationally through exhibitions, publications, commemorative coins, medals and specially commissioned works, reflecting the Bank's enduring significance in British history. These silver dishes form part of that wider tradition of commemorative objects produced to honour this important milestone.

British Iconography

Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of the design is the prominent depiction of Britannia herself at its centre, based on the 1930 Britannia motif created by coin designer Humphrey Paget. Long regarded as the personification of Britain, Britannia has appeared on coins, medals and official emblems for centuries, symbolising national strength, stability and continuity. Her inclusion is particularly fitting on objects crafted from Britannia silver, creating a direct link between the material and the imagery.

The surrounding St George's Cross, taken from the shield of the Britannia motif, reinforces the connection to English identity, while the border of laurel leaves evokes themes of achievement, honour and longevity, and the stylised rosettes perhaps represent the Tudor rose, symbolising unity. Together, these motifs create a design deeply rooted in Britain's cultural and historical heritage, making these dishes a fitting tribute to the Bank of England's three-hundredth anniversary.

The Silversmith

Christopher Nigel Lawrence (b. 1936) is widely regarded as one of Britain's most accomplished contemporary silversmiths, celebrated for his exceptional technical skill and elegant, innovative designs. Inspired to become a silversmith at just 13 years old, Lawrence began his apprenticeship with C.J. Vander before refining his craft at R.E. Stone, where he mastered traditional hand-raising techniques. He later spent eight years as workshop manager for the renowned silversmith Gerald Benney before establishing his own workshop in Essex in 1968.

Over a distinguished career spanning more than six decades, Lawrence has won numerous accolades, including three Jacques Cartier Memorial Awards and 28 Goldsmiths' Craft Council prizes. His work has been exhibited internationally and commissioned by prestigious institutions, including the Bank of England (for example, the featured dishes in this lot) and The Royal Mint. A Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths, Lawrence is particularly admired for combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design.

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We hold valuation days every Monday and Tuesday at our conveniently placed high street offices, and have experts on hand to accurately assess your silverware. Our valuations are free, and there is no pressure to sell. Should you wish to consign your items, we will guide you through the process from start to finish. We have one of the lowest sellers' commissions in the country at just 10% + VAT on the hammer price, and there are no hidden fees. Call us on 01793 840777 or email us at office@rwbauctions.com, and one of the team will be delighted to assist you.