Description

Offered is an authentic Georgian-era brass quarter gill (1 oz) spirit measure, dating to approximately 1780–1830. The measure is solid brass and bears multiple original British excise and verification stamps struck around the rim, indicating legal approval for commercial use in taverns or apothecaries. These stamps include crown cartouches, inspector numerals, and verification marks applied during periodic government inspections.

The measure features a classic bulbous body with narrow waist and original cast handle. It retains its original aged patina with honest wear consistent with centuries of use. No modern metric markings are present.

A fine survivor of early regulated commerce and an excellent addition to any collection of Georgian antiques, tavern history, or early measuring instruments.

“The crowned ‘25’ stamp is a British excise inspector’s verification mark, confirming legal approval for commercial use under Georgian excise law.”

It supports British (not Continental) origin

French, Dutch, and German measures use:

City marks

Capacity text

Guild symbols

This mark is British excise practice, not European guild practice.

This style of numeric excise stamp with crown:

Appears late 18th century

Continues into early Regency

Disappears before standardized Victorian marking systems

➡️ This tightens the dating to roughly 1780–1825.

This mark only appears on items that:

Were tested for capacity

Were approved for commercial use

Could be legally challenged if incorrect

It is an official British excise verification mark

Crowned authority device = government inspection

Number = individual inspector or inspection district

Hand-struck, uneven = period-correct

Why the stamp looks crude

That slightly uneven, soft-edged look is exactly what you want to see.

Hand-struck

Hardened steel punch

Done quickly during inspection

Often struck at an angle or partially

Condition

Good antique condition. No repairs. Original surface. See photos.

Dimensions:

2 1/8" tall

2" across at widest part at handle

1  1/2" body diameter