A pair of measures with a flared skirt base, curved over top rim and a solid loop handle with a thumb rest to the top made by Yates & Birch of Birmingham. Larger 1/2 pint measure is marked inside base with ‘X’ over a crown, to outer rim with ‘VR’ under crown verification mark and ‘Yates & Birch’ and a partially obscured ‘1/2 Pint.’ Also marked under rim with ‘1/2 Pint.’

The smaller measure is marked to rim with ‘Yates & Birch’, a ‘VR’ under crown verification mark, and ‘GILL.’

The 1/2 pint measure is approximately 3.75 inches tall at top of handle, 3 inch diameter at the base, and 2.75 inch diameter opening. The smaller measure is approximately 3 inches to rim, 2.5 inch diameter base and a 2.25 inch diameter opening. Collectively they weigh approximately 382 grams or almost .13 ounces. Some dents to exterior as visible in photos.

A verification mark signifies that the measure has been inspected by an official Weights & Measures Inspector and found to be of the correct capacity. In England, it became a country-wide legal requirement to stamp all measures with a verification mark in 1835. From roughly 1879 onwards a uniform style was adopted consisting of a crown, the monarch’s initials (ie VR, ER or GR) and a number which signifies the location. Measures were often inspected several times during their lifetime and thus can carry several verification marks. Sometimes at subsequent inspections the inspector merely stamped a two digit number signifying the year of re-inspection.

Historically, marks incorporating a crown, such as the "crowned X” found on the inside of the larger measure, were used on pewter in England and elsewhere to denote quality or the hardness of the alloy. These marks were not regulated, and were used to denote quality without any standard.

The item(s) are antique and sold as is/as found unless otherwise noted. Because they are old, they were used and will not look new or new-like. They likely show wear, fading, scratches, chips, cracks, past repair/restoration, original imperfections and/or damage from normal use. Significant issues are shown in photos. Examine photos carefully as they are part of the description. Imperfections were factored into pricing. No returns or refunds.

Items sold for $100 or more may be shipped with insurance and signature requirement. No responsibility for loss, theft or damage that occurs AFTER your purchase has been delivered to the address you have provided. Any damage to purchase must be reported immediately and photos provided of both the exterior of the box and the damaged item to facilitate the filing of a claim.