Silver

RARE 1966 IRISH SILVER "SWORD OF LIGHT" ...

Name: RARE 1966 IRISH SILVER "SWORD OF LIGHT" ...
Brand: Sandbanks Antiques
SKU: SA1205560
Price: 1250.00 GBP
Availability: InStock

A rare and well-preserved example of 1960 from Dublin, 1966, noted for its craftsmanship, material quality, and historical relevance.

A Museum-Quality Heirloom of Irish History. Available for sale is an exceptional and highly sought-after piece of Irish heritage: a heavy-gauge Sterling Silver ''Strawberry Dish'' style bowl, hallmarked in Dublin, 1966. This year marks the 60th Anniversary of this bowl's creation, making it a timely acquisition for serious collectors of Irish silver and history.\n\nThe Iconic ''Sword of Light'' Hallmark\nThe true rarity of this piece lies in the commemorative ''An Claidheamh Soluis'' (The Sword of Light) hallmark. This special mark was authorized by the Dublin Assay Office for one year only to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the 1916 Easter Rising. Because this stamp was exclusively used in 1966, these pieces represent a finite and dwindling supply of ''Nationalist Silver.''\n\nAesthetic: Traditional Irish lobed design featuring hand-hammered floral repoussé work and three classic scallop-shell feet.\n\nMaker: Stamped with the prestigious ''JW'' maker''s mark (attributed to the renowned Dublin workshop of John Walker).\n\nHallmarks: Exceptionally crisp and deep strikes, including the Hibernia duty mark, the Harp Crowned (Sterling .925), and the 1966 ''Y'' date letter.\n\nCondition: Excellent vintage condition with no thinning or ''rubbing'' to the commemorative marks. Today we celebrate 60 years since this commemorative series was struck and 110 years since the Rising it honours. With its significant weight and perfectly preserved hallmarks, this bowl is not just a silver vessel; it is a tangible piece of the Irish Republic''s story. It is a rare opportunity to own a high-investment-grade example of 20th-century Irish silversmithing.

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