This guide provides the essential information the buyer needs - quickly, clearly and simply. It looks in details at 48 classic items likely to be encountered in shops or salerooms - ranging from large, important pieces originally made to demonstrate the wealth and power of their owners, down to the smallest, most affordable silver made to use and enjoy: cutlery, cruets, card cases, vesta cases and all the charming little objects that were taken for granted by earlier generations. The guide also traces the history of the ancient craft of silversmithing in England, from rare early pieces to less expensive and more readily available silver make during the 20th century some of it copying earlier styles so faithfully that only an expert can tell the difference.