Thanks for the welcome guys - much appreciated.
The back-mark issue has got me thinking. I have just checked my various lists of backmarks etc. In the list of Button Manufacturers in the back of "Discovering British Military Badges and buttons" by R.J. Wilkinson-Latham.
It lists various back-marks for the manufacturer "Hawkes", and shows :
"Hawkes & Co., 14 Piccadilly," as 1853 - 1890.
Not sure how accurate his information is.
Anyway hope that helps in some small way!
Ian
|