Have you spotted the “800” mark or an unusual hallmark on a silver object? It is probably 800 silver, a common fineness on old silverware and pieces. Here is what it means and what it is worth.
What is 800 silver
The number indicates the fineness, that is, the proportion of pure silver in the alloy:
- 800 silver = 80% pure silver (and 20% other metals, mostly copper);
- compared to 925 silver (92.5%), the standard of modern jewelry — see silver jewelry.
800 silver is genuine solid silver: it has real buyback value, simply a little lower than 925 at equal weight (less pure silver).
Where is 800 silver found
- Silverware: cutlery, trays, holloware, particularly of foreign or antique origin — see solid silver cutlery and silverware.
- Antique coins and objects, where 800 was a widespread fineness.
- Some older or imported jewelry.
The 800 silver hallmark
In France, 800 silver is historically marked with the crab hallmark (800), distinct from the Minerve head (French 925/950 hallmark) (reserved for 925/950). On foreign objects, the “800” mark is stamped directly. Details in solid silver hallmarks.
What buyback value?
The value follows the same rule as any solid silver: weight × fineness × current price, minus a margin. In concrete terms, at equal weight, an 800 object contains 80% pure silver versus 92.5% for a 925 — so its metal value is proportionally lower, but very real. The calculation is detailed in silver jewelry buyback; the current price is on silver price.
800 or plated: don’t confuse them
An 800 object is solid (real value); a “silver-plated (métal argenté)” object is not. The presence of a fineness hallmark (crab, or “800”) distinguishes solid silver from simple plating — see solid or plated silver.
In summary
- 800 silver = 80% pure silver, genuine solid silver (real buyback value).
- It is found mainly on silverware and antique or imported objects.
- Crab hallmark in France, or a stamped “800” mark.
- Value = weight × 0.80 × price, a little under 925 at equal weight.
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This article is informational and does not constitute investment advice.