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For collectors of vintage sterling silver, few discoveries are more intriguing than a piece bearing the Sanborns name. Known for refined Mexican craftsmanship, Sanborns silver has become a desirable category among antique dealers and enthusiasts alike. But identifying genuine Sanborns silver — and distinguishing it from lookalikes — starts with decoding its marks and symbols.
Whether you’ve found a tray at an estate sale or inherited a family heirloom, here’s how to interpret the signatures, hallmarks, and symbols used by Sanborns over the years.
Unlike mass-produced flatware or decorative silver, Sanborns pieces were often handwrought and made in small batches. Their markings serve not just as proof of authenticity, but as indicators of origin, material purity, and sometimes even the silversmith who crafted them.
For collectors, these details offer both historical insight and critical information for determining age and value.
The most consistent and recognizable Sanborns mark includes the brand name itself — “Sanborns Mexico” — often accompanied by additional symbols. Over the years, there have been several iterations, but the most notable identifiers include:
One of Sanborns’ most iconic hallmarks is the trio of owls, typically arranged side-by-side. This motif represents the Sanborn brothers (Walter, Frank, and a nod to continuity or wisdom) and is unique to the brand.
Depending on the era and the piece, this owl mark may appear stylized, abstract, or more literal, but it always signals authenticity.
Most authentic Sanborns sterling will include one of the following silver purity stamps:
It’s worth noting that early Sanborns pieces may lack these purity indicators altogether, especially if produced before standard hallmarking practices were widely adopted in Mexico.
Some pieces, especially from the 1940s–60s, include additional initials or numeric codes. These may reference a specific artisan or silversmith workshop affiliated with Sanborns at the time. While not always easy to trace, these secondary marks help establish a clearer timeline and, occasionally, boost collectibility.
Sanborns operated across a broad time period, and naturally, its hallmarks evolved. Early 20th-century items may feature more ornate or decorative stampings, sometimes etched rather than struck. Post-WWII silverwork tends to be more standardized, often stamped uniformly and placed on the underside or near the base of hollowware.
By the 1970s and beyond, mass production had crept in, and markings became more uniform — though still anchored in the brand’s core identity.
Because Sanborns pieces were sometimes sold through third-party vendors or department stores, not every item with “Mexico” or “Sterling” is necessarily a Sanborns creation.
To confirm authenticity:
Properly identifying Sanborns marks isn’t just about knowing what you have — it’s key to establishing age, authenticity, and potential value. Pieces with clear, legible hallmarks tend to command higher prices, and those tied to early periods or known workshops are often favored by collectors.
As Mexican silver continues to rise in popularity among both domestic and international buyers, accurate attribution is more important than ever.
Sanborns silver marks tell a deeper story than just brand ownership. From symbolic owls to discreet silversmith initials, each stamp serves as a clue to craftsmanship, origin, and era. For collectors and sellers alike, understanding these marks is essential to appreciating what makes Sanborns silver not just beautiful — but significant.
