The Book of Silver is the updatable reference that has set the new standard for silver flatware references. The Book of Silver is the only available comprehensive system for the Identification, Research and Cataloging of American Sterling Flatware. The Martin's pioneering digital photography and lighting techniques are used to create quality and detailed flatware pattern images of both the obverse and reverse sides of a pattern. They also provide photographic close ups of the actual maker, retailers marks and other marks as found the flatware. Never before has a flatware pattern reference provided so much information and detail images in such a clear and easy to use system.

"The Book of Silver is intended, ultimately, to be the definitive work on American flatware pattern identification.  ... those who stick with the Martins will eventually be rewarded with the premier American Sterling Silver pattern book."

"... Like many people who enjoy collecting a wide variety of Victorian era flatware I have many questions that are not answered in the existing "pattern matching" books and so I was drawn to the Martins' work. ..."

The Book of Silver is a "living work." As new or revised information becomes available the new/revised information is distributed to registered users. The original 800+ page release is now over 1200 pages. With the easy insertion of the updates into The Book of Silver the users original copy is always identical to the most recent new release.

"The Martins are using a loose-leaf binder to house the already 800-plus page compendium and have issued two updates. ... The first and second updates have now shipped and the resultant collection fills two binders."

"Because of the incredible amount of photographic and research work that they put into any pattern that comes under their [The Martins] analysis ... it will be the definitive work for any pattern or manufacturer that is included."

No matter the size (large or small) of your personal research library the The Book of Silver is a must have complement.

"I was introduced recently to The Book of Silver - Flatware Silver Marks & Patterns by Jim Seymour of Seymours Sterling, and ordered it immediately. I have now had an opportunity to peruse it and find it to be a marvelous resource in my small (but growing) library of silver identification materials. ..."

At the core of the Martin's system is the Standard Identification Number (SIN). The Book of Silver assigns each documented pattern image a unique Standard Identification Number. This provides a common reference point for identifying patterns. Many times no one has been able to identify a pattern name or maker and/or the pattern name is not known because the original manufacturers documentation has been lost. Additionally patterns have been rediscovered or reintroduced by a successor manufacturer under a new name. In such event the SIN provides a unique and uniform identity for a pattern whether the pattern remains unnamed, named or renamed.

"The plan of the book is simple. Every flatware pattern is to be given a Standard Identification Number (SIN). ... the authors have divided the book into ten sections and an appendix. The first four sections cover introductory matters. The next six sections are the focus of the project: How To Use This Book, Pattern Image Quick Reference, Pattern Image, Makers' Marks, Retailers' Marks, Pattern Name Index With Cross References. The Appendix contains Flatware Silhouettes, Background and Acknowledgments. "

The Book of Silver project allows for the user to actively participate and contribute. Furthmore, the design and layout provide the user the opportunity arrange the research materials to fit his or her particular approach

"...   They are encouraging contributions of information and guidance from the silver community and I have spent many enjoyable evenings reporting "sightings" of interesting pieces not yet recorded as well as updating my own want list for what does or does not exist.
        I suggest that any serious collector get involved with the Martin's work for it is an interactive rewarding project, not just a book that sits on the shelf."

"The authors are hoping for input from the silver community. The Acknowledgments section indicates that an extensive cross section of the Antique Silver Trade is aware of this project."

The Pattern Name Index section cross references all of most widely found pattern references books and journals. There are over 10,000 entries. At a glance a user can know which publication and on what page the pattern is discussed. In addition the user can then compare all of the basic information such as Pattern Name, Manufacturer, Patient/Introduction Date and Production Status as found in each publication all without opening another book.