How do I date a silver bottle tag?

Dating relies heavily on the hallmarks stamped into the silver, which indicate the assay office and year of manufacture. Stylistic shifts, such as the ornate vine leaves of the Georgian period versus later minimalist designs, also provide clues. Maker marks help narrow down the exact decade of production when records of the silversmith exist.

How were bottle tags used historically?

Hosts placed these tags around the necks of crystal decanters to inform guests of the contents when serving port, sherry or claret. They prevented confusion at the dining table once decanted from opaque original bottles. The chains allowed the tags to hang freely without damaging the glass.

Can I use antique tags on modern decanters?

Antique silver tags fit modern decanters provided the chain length accommodates the thickness of the bottleneck. Many collectors continue to use them in active dining settings. Care should be taken to match the scale of the tag to the size of the glass vessel.