Silver Spirit Decanter Label
A silver spirit decanter label marks the bottle on the sideboard, naming the gin or whisky within.
Silver Spirit Decanter Label
A silver spirit decanter label identifies the contents of a bottle or decanter on the sideboard. The examples found here span the Georgian, Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco periods, alongside later twentieth-century pieces.
Most items are standalone tags hung by chains around the necks of decanters, while others accompany matched whisky noggins, tots or entire decanter sets. They name specific spirits such as whisky, rum, gin, brandy, sherry and Madeira.
The form ranges from simple stamped rectangles of the Victorian era to intricate Georgian miniatures and mid-century designs incorporating enamel. Buyers encounter both individual labels and matched sets intended for multi-bottle stands.
What varies in quality
Quality rests upon the crispness of the pierced or engraved lettering and the weight of the silver gauge used for the body. Substantial metal thickness prevents bending along the chain suspension points.
Design distinction separates standard production pieces from those bearing maker attributions or unusual titles. Matched sets maintaining original chains and clear hallmarks command greater interest from collectors.
The listings here include sterling silver, silver plate, enamel, cut glass, crystal, cobalt glass and green glass.
William Sharp·Elizabeth Morley·Elkington·George Unite·Harry Atkin·Mappin and Webb
The Silver Spirit Decanter Label Glossary
- Decanter label
- A small silver or plated tag hung around the neck of a bottle to identify the beverage. They are also known historically as bottle tickets.
- Noggin
- A small mug or vessel used for serving spirits, frequently encountered here paired with a matching silver label and decanter jug.
- Hallmark
- An official stamp struck into precious metals indicating the standard of purity, the assay office, and the date letter for the year of manufacture.
- Tantalus
- A wooden framework, often in oak, holding decanters securely behind a locking bar to prevent unauthorized access to the spirits.
- Provincial silver
- Silverware manufactured and marked outside the main assay offices of London, such as items originating from Scottish towns like Peterhead.
Silver Spirit Decanter Label: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I hang a decanter label?
Most labels come fitted with an original silver chain that slips easily over the neck of the decanter or bottle.
Ensure the chain rests loosely below the stopper rim so the label hangs flat against the glass.
What spirits do these labels name?
The pieces in this selection identify traditional spirits including whisky, rum, gin, brandy, sherry and Madeira.
Some unusual or custom titles also appear among the Victorian and Georgian examples.
Are these labels sold with decanters?
Some listings offer individual labels on their own, while others include matched whisky noggins, tots or entire glass decanters.
Check the individual title to see if the piece forms part of a set.
How can I tell the period of a label?
Look for hallmarks stamped on the reverse or border, which indicate the assay office and date letter for the year of making.
Stylistic details such as Georgian pierced vine leaves or mid-century enamel also point to specific eras.