Jubilee Celebrations

The bowl, commissioned by The Birmingham Assay Office, was made by local silversmith Andrew Macgowan, based in Frederick Street in the heart of the Quarter.  Weighing exactly one kilogram the bowl is an alternative to the traditional “investment bar”.  Visually the design is simplicity itself but the skill required to spin such a perfect piece should not be underestimated.  Made from 999 parts per thousand, fine silver, the bowl has a satin finish but a “bright” …

  The Queen even dropped by to present our cake competition winners with a prize. Jan Steventon (left) and Anna Machin (right) came joint 1st prize winners for their stunning festive decorated cakes. They tasted just as good as they looked! Faye Grove and Vicky Griffiths also won prizes for joint second. Faye made a fabulous iced Anchor cake and Vicky decorated some very festive cup cakes. See more photos on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/assayoffice

Andy McGowan's one kilogram 'Investment Bowl' made from 999 silver is a quirky but appropriate product in a year when many are stockpiling precious metals, considering them a safer investment than other options. [caption id="attachment_1413" align="alignleft" width="295" caption="Andy McGowan"] The commissioned piece weighs 60 ounces, marking 60 years of Her Majesty's reign and is resplendent with a full spread hallmark including, of course, the Diamond Jubilee Mark.