Original 18th century pewter charger plate with partial English crown marking

This is a very unique piece being offered; it is an18th century pewter charger [plate], circa 1730 – 1750. It has a diameter of 13 ¼” and an amateur engraving near the edge with a British Crown with the initials “S M” below it. It weighs 2-pounds, 12-ounces.

A charger plate is typically larger and wider than a dinner plate and sometimes acts as a base for a dinner plate or bowl on a formal table setting. In the 18th century, they were often made of pewter or porcelain and might feature intricate designs or engravings

There are examples of this charger in the Colonial Williamsburg Museum and the Guilford Revolutionary War Museum (see pictures). With the unusual engraving on this plate, it may have some ties to a British officer or British fort.

This large dish shows signs of period use but is in very nice solid condition. This would be a nice touch to a Revolutionary War collection or an early American Colonial collection.