What is an antique metal crest?

An antique metal crest is a sculptural or flat emblem cast, forged, or embossed in materials like brass, bronze, iron, or pewter. These pieces display specific coats of arms, family lineages, or institutional insignia from past centuries. They function primarily as decorative wall plaques, architectural salvage, or ornamental details on mirrors and fire screens, preserving historical heraldry in durable metal.

How do I identify the age of a metal crest?

Dating relies on stylistic markers, manufacturing techniques, and any accompanying inscriptions or maker stamps. 17th and 18th-century pieces often feature hand-hammered pewter or heavy cast bronze, while Victorian examples frequently utilise stamped brass and heavy cast iron. Examining the back of the metal, the oxidation patterns, and the fastening methods helps distinguish older hand-finished work from later reproductions.

Where were these crests originally displayed?

Heraldic metal crests and coats of arms were traditionally mounted above doors, upon interior walls, or on household furnishings to denote family ancestry or corporate identity. Railway companies, municipal buildings, and military ministries also commissioned specific plaques for public display. Domestic items like mirrors and fire screens integrated these crests into everyday living spaces as symbols of status and heritage.

How do I care for antique metal?

Maintenance involves gentle dusting and occasionally preserving the existing patination rather than aggressive polishing. Strong chemical cleaners can strip historical surfaces and diminish the value of cast or embossed details on brass and bronze. Keep pieces in stable indoor environments away from excessive moisture to protect iron and steel from rust.

Search 0

63,299 PAGES BROWSED TODAY PAGES TODAY • 231 ANTIQUES UPLOADED TODAYNEW ARRIVALS

Sorted by

Per page

VISITOR LOGIN JOIN AS A SELLER DEALER LOGIN

Saved

GIFTS

Metal Crest

231 ITEMS ADDED TODAY

Visitor Login (saved items)

Sort Order

Items Per Page

Antique Metal Crest

37 items · page 3 of 3

← Page 3 of 3 →

An antique metal crest brings tangible lineage and heraldic character to a room, ranging from robust cast iron plaques to finely chased brass mirrors.

Gorgeous Pair of French Gilt Brass Photo Frames – Circa 1900

1900 - 1920

Save

Gorgeous Pair of French Gilt Brass Photo Frames – Circa 1900

From Kingsdown Antiques

£285

FOR SALE

miscellaneous

Antique French Cushion Mirror Metal Mounts Circa 1880

19th century

Save

Antique French Cushion Mirror Metal Mounts Circa 1880

From Canonbury Antiques

£1,650

FOR SALE

mirrors

Charles II Pewter 20.25in Broad Rim Charger with Skrymshire Family Crest, by Lawrence Dyer Circa 1660.

17th century

Save

Charles II Pewter 20.25in Broad Rim Charger with Skrymshire Family Crest, by Lawrence Dyer Circa 1660.

From Antique Pewter

£1,950

FOR SALE

metal

19th century

Save

Pair of Victorian Brass Mirrors

From Church Street Antiques & Interiors

£795

FOR SALE

mirrors

Old Sheffield Plated Wine Cooler C1800 Coat of Arms

19th century

Save

Old Sheffield Plated Wine Cooler C1800 Coat of Arms

From David Pickett Antiques

£225

FOR SALE

silver

← 1 2 3 →

65,714

Antiques For Sale

231

Antiques Approved Today

4,806

Antique Uploads This Month

445,202

Total Antiques Sold

Antique Metal Crest

Gorgeous Pair of French Gilt Brass Photo Frames – Circa 1900

Antique French Cushion Mirror Metal Mounts Circa 1880

Charles II Pewter 20.25in Broad Rim Charger with Skrymshire Family Crest, by Lawrence Dyer Circa 1660.

Pair of Victorian Brass Mirrors

Old Sheffield Plated Wine Cooler C1800 Coat of Arms

Add keywords to the filter

Price

Era

Period

Style

Material

Origin

Stock Location

Recently Added

Online Payments

Categories