Is ANCHOR the same as Birmingham Anchor?

Yes. ANCHOR, Birmingham Anchor all denote the same material — assay-mark. Different markets and eras stamp it differently, but the purity is identical.

How do I confirm a ANCHOR stamp is genuine?

Look at the mark under 10× magnification for crisp, even strikes, cross-check the weight-to-volume ratio against the expected density, scan it with the Jewelry Identifier app, and — when it matters — have an XRF test done by an assay office or gemological lab.

* assay-mark hallmark

The ANCHOR hallmark: meaning, purity & value

British assay office mark: anchor symbol indicates Birmingham Assay Office (established 1773 by Act of Parliament). Found alongside purity mark and date letter. Birmingham was historically the largest assay office by volume.

Published May 30, 2026

Quick facts

Metal: assay-mark
Common regions: UK

Stamps that mean the same thing

This purity may be struck into jewelry as any of: ANCHOR / Birmingham Anchor. The mark differs by country and era, but the metal content is identical.

What ANCHOR tells you

How to check it yourself

Examine the stamp under a 10× loupe — genuine marks are crisp and evenly struck, not doubled or smeared.
Confirm the mark reads ANCHOR or an equivalent such as Birmingham Anchor.
Photograph it in the Jewelry Identifier app to read the metal, hallmark, and any gemstones from the image.
For a binding result, have an assay office or gemological lab run an XRF purity test.

Sources

Birmingham Assay Office historical records
Wikidata Q4866015

* Frequently asked

FAQ

Q. Is ANCHOR the same as Birmingham Anchor?: A. Yes. ANCHOR, Birmingham Anchor all denote the same material — assay-mark. Different markets and eras stamp it differently, but the purity is identical.
Q. How do I confirm a ANCHOR stamp is genuine?: A. Look at the mark under 10× magnification for crisp, even strikes, cross-check the weight-to-volume ratio against the expected density, scan it with the Jewelry Identifier app, and — when it matters — have an XRF test done by an assay office or gemological lab.

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