Silver Spirit Tag
A silver spirit tag identifies the bottle in hand, bringing order to the sideboard in solid metal.
Silver Spirit Tag
When you search for a silver spirit tag, you are looking at small inscribed labels that hang from the necks of decanters to name the liquor within. The pieces seen here span the Georgian, Regency, Victorian, and Edwardian periods, alongside mid-century examples from Birmingham.
The forms vary from simple cutout script to enamel designs and sets, bearing titles such as rum, madeira, sherry, gin, whisky, and brandy. You will also find matching decanter labels on silver chains and associated glass decanters included amongst the items.
How they were made
These items are fashioned from sterling silver and solid silver, employing traditional metalworking techniques appropriate to each era. Enamel is also utilised on mid-century pieces to add colour to the surface.
Makers shaped the metal by piercing, casting, or stamping, frequently suspending the finished label from a matching silver chain to fit around the decanter neck.
Silver Spirit Tag Retail Price Guide 2026
Typical asking prices for silver spirit tag among the pieces listed under this phrase on Sellingantiques today, from the lower quarter to the upper quarter. They describe what is for sale here now, not the wider market.
What varies in quality
The distinction between standard pieces and superior examples lies in the crispness of the piercing, the weight of the solid silver, and the clarity of the engraved or enamelled lettering. Sets matched by maker and period command greater coherence on the serving tray.
Provenance and origin also influence the standing of a piece, with provincial Scottish marks or output from known firms such as Mappin and Webb marking out better craftsmanship.
Tiffany·Mappin And Webb
The Silver Spirit Tag Glossary
- Decanter label
- A small metal tag hung by a chain around the neck of a bottle to indicate its contents. These items are also historically known as bottle tickets.
- Provincial silver
- Silverware assayed outside of the main London office, often bearing regional marks that indicate local makers. Scottish provincial examples from towns like Peterhead are particularly distinctive.
- Solid silver
- Metal of substantial silver content throughout, rather than plated wares. Items marked as sterling silver fall into this durable category.
- Enamel
- A fused glassy substance applied to metal surfaces for decoration. It provides bright colour highlights on mid-century spirit tags.
Silver Spirit Tag: Frequently Asked Questions
What is a silver spirit tag?
A silver spirit tag is a small metal label designed to hang around the neck of a decanter. It displays the name of the contents so guests can identify the drink.
These pieces range from Georgian and Victorian hand-engraved designs to mid-century enamelled versions.
How were spirit tags used?
They were hung by chains around the necks of glass decanters on the dining table or sideboard. This prevented confusion between different dark spirits and wines.
Sets were often purchased together to maintain a uniform appearance across multiple decanters.
How do I date a silver tag?
Dating relies on stylistic clues, script styles, and hallmarks stamped into the silver. Georgian and Regency pieces often feature bright-cut engraving, whilst Victorian tags tend to be heavier and more ornate.
Assay office marks and date letters provide precise years for items made in Birmingham and other centres.
How do I care for silver labels?
Silver spirit tags require occasional gentle cleaning with a soft cloth to maintain their polish. Enamelled pieces need extra care to avoid chipping the glass surface.
Storing them away from damp environments prevents tarnishing and preserves the engraved details.