Auction Prize Winners Welcomed to Sheffield Assay Office
Published: 3rd March 2026
Jane had successfully bid on this special experience at the Deans Charity Cabaret Night held at Sheffield Cathedral in November 2025. She invited three friends to join her for what proved to be a unique and memorable visit.
Sara Hale, Head of Commercial Operations, and Emma Paragreen, Curator, Librarian and Archivist, delivered an engaging presentation outlining the rich history and modern-day work of the Assay Office. Guests were then taken on a tour of the state-of-the-art premises, where they saw first-hand the specialist techniques used in the assaying and hallmarking of precious metals.
The visit concluded with a delicious afternoon tea served in the historic library, where an elegant silver teapot – a fitting nod to Sheffield’s proud silversmithing heritage – was on display. A very pleasant afternoon was had by all.
Speaking about the visit, Sara Hale said:
“It’s wonderful that the Assay Master has been able to support Sheffield Cathedral and the Cathedral Archer Project by donating a unique prize to the auction. We were delighted to welcome Jane and her friends to the office. Sheffield has a close working relationship with the Cathedral and the people of the city, and it’s important that we contribute to their vital work supporting the homeless community.”
To find out more about the Sheffield Assay Office and the Cathedral Archer Project, please visit Hallmarking and Analytical Services | Sheffield Assay Office and Supporting Sheffields homeless and vulnerable | Cathedral Archer Project
The Sheffield Assay Office was established in 1773, under an Act of Parliament and today the company assays and hallmarks the precious metals - silver, gold, platinum and palladium. Sheffield Assay Office is one of only four UK assay offices who all work to uphold the Hallmarking Act of 1973 and continue to ensure consumer protection for customers purchasing precious metals.
To find out more about the whole range of services offered by Sheffield Assay Office, such as our hallmarking and analytical services, please email us at info@assayoffice.co.uk or complete the contact form on our website at http://www.assayoffice.co.uk/contact-us ,
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