A pair of early Victorian silver sugar nips, of scissor action form with shell bowls, hallmarked Francis Higgins II, London 1853, length measuring 5 2/8 inches (13.2 cm). Together with a further pair of sugar nips, of scissor action form with shell bowls and engraved monogram, assumed London, partial maker's mark possibly for Henry Plumpton alongside a possible lion passant. Gross weight 2.7 ozt (86.7 grams). (2).

In overall good condition, the lot displays general surface scratches, marks, wear and tarnishing commensurate with the age and use. The shell bowls align well on the Victorian pair, scissor action a little stiff, hallmarks clear and legible. Heavier wear to the other pair and there is a slight crack at the base of one stem, near to the central button. The metal of the ring handles also appears a little thinner in places and they are very slightly misshapen. Minor loss of definition to the engraved monogram, no town mark or date letter, assumed London, partial maker's mark possibly for Henry Plumpton alongside a possible lion passant.