.... this appears to me to be a mid 18th century piece and the hallmarks point to Cologne. The 12 stands for 12 lot which equals a silver content of 750. Unfortunately, I do not have information about the maker indicated on this piece.
Kind regards
Karin

.... Regarding Svein Solhjell's salt cellar in ASCAS newsletter # 25, the style and marks are consistent with 2nd quarter 18th century Germany.
The city mark appears to be that of Köln (Cologne) after 1724: three crowns above 12, with the 12 indicating 12 löt or .750 silver.
The maker's mark GG in an oval is that of Gisbert Geilenburg of Köln (Cologne): Master 1696, died after 1737.
Hope this helps!
Charles

I was naturally interested in seeing the article on the Danish bowl by Hymie Dinerstein, but I think her conclusion that it was made to commemorate Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale 'The Ugly Duckling' is unfounded.
There are many, many works of art - including numerous fountains - in Denmark with the swan, which is considered the national bird. This silversmith, Carl Peter Foght - who can hardly be considered famous, though his work is represented in several museums - would probably have used scenes from the story on the bowl itself if that was the theme.
Best regards,
Martha

.... The answer to the question is that the piece is made of an Austrian coin - it is cut out of a coin (Maria-Theresien Taler). The part with eagles is the Austrian Imperial coat of arms and the head depicts the famous Empress Maria Theresia (1717-1780).
The piece itself is from the 20th century and is made of 830 silver, is not sterling but a little less silver content.
I can’t really see what the item is, but I have a letter opener which is decorated with the Coat of Arms cut out part of the coin.
I hope this helps.
Karin

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