What does 375 mean on gold?
Updated: Sep 6
A real 9ct Gold Ingot Explained
I recently purchased this 9ct gold ingot during an office appointment in Haywards Heath, West Sussex. It’s a perfect example of a fully hallmarked piece, with each mark giving valuable information about its quality, origin and history.
Understanding the Hallmarks
This ingot bears five clear hallmarks, all of which provide valuable information about the gold.
1. Sponsor’s / Maker’s Mark
The maker’s or sponsor’s mark identifies the registered person or company that submitted the piece for hallmarking.
2. The Crown (Standard Mark)
The crown is the traditional symbol for gold in British hallmarks. It historically denoted standard gold fineness standards before the modern unified system, and it remains the official standard/purity indicator rather than a tax duty mark.
3. 375 (Fineness Mark)
The number 375 tells us the gold purity. Gold is measured in parts per thousand, so 375 means this ingot is 9 carat gold (37.5% pure gold, 62.5% other metals).
4. C (Date Letter)
The letter C is the date letter.
The letter, its style (font) and the surrounding shield shape are used together to identify the year the piece was hallmarked. The letter C does not indicate the assay office.
5. Leopard’s Head
(London Assay Office Mark)
The leopard’s head is the mark of the London Assay Office. It tells us where the piece was hallmarked, confirming it was tested in London.
What Is a Gold Ingot Pendant?
Gold ingot pendant takes its design from traditional gold bars or ingots. Unlike a bullion bar intended for storing gold, an ingot pendant was made as jewellery, with a bail so it could be worn on a chain. One of its most distinctive features is often the large hallmark displayed prominently on the front.
Popular in the 1970s
Gold ingot pendants were especially fashionable in the 1970s and into the 1980s. They suited the era’s love of bold, substantial yellow gold jewellery and were often worn on heavier chains.
Are They Collectable?
Many vintage gold ingot pendants are sought after by collectors, particularly examples from the 1970s and 1980s with clear hallmarks from recognised assay offices. Beyond collectability, their value is always underpinned by the weight of the 9ct gold itself.
Why Hallmarks Matter
Hallmarks are more than just tiny stamps. They are your assurance of quality and authenticity. When you sell or insure a piece, these marks provide confidence in its value.
Not Sure What Your Gold Hallmarks Mean?
If you have a gold ingot, piece of gold jewellery or an unfamiliar hallmark, you're welcome to send me a clear photograph via WhatsApp. I can take an initial look and let you know whether it's something worth investigating further.
Key Takeaway
This ingot is 9ct gold, hallmarked in London. The 375 confirmes the gold purity. The letter C (date letter) helps establish the year.
Quick Reference
Sponsor’s /
Maker’s Mark
Identifies the registered person
or company that submitted
the piece for hallmarking.
The Crown
(Standard Mark)
Confirms the metal is gold.
375
(Fineness Mark)
9 carat gold (37.5% pure gold).
C
(Date Letter)
Helps establish the year the
piece was hallmarked.
Leopard’s Head
(London AssayOffice Mark)
Hallmarked in London.
Get in Touch
Phone: 07586 402927
WhatsApp: 07586 402927
Email: info@antiquesofsussex.co.uk
About the Author
Wayne
Founder, Antiques of Sussex
30+ Years’ Experience
Having spent years buying and valuing antiques, gold, jewellery, silver, coins and watches across Sussex, I’m here to offer trusted, knowledgeable advice on your treasured items.