This is a set of Scottish Silver Sugar Tongs or Nips, made during the reign of George III by the silversmith William Davie, & hallmarked for Edinburgh circa 1790.

The tongs are made of a heavy gauge Silver & are of a plain, typically Scottish design with a concave bow. The bow is lightly engraved with the initials 'KJ' ? in period script.

The tongs are hallmarked to the interior of the arms, one arm with the Thistle (for 925 sterling) & the George Head (Duty Mark), & the other arm with the makers mark 'WD' (for Wm. Davie, entered 1740 - Jacksons p 548).

The duty mark on the tongs (in cameo) was used from 1786 until 1797, so would date the tongs to within this 11 year period.

Condition is Excellent with no repairs, dings, or erasures.

The tongs measure approx 14 cm, or 5 1/2" in length.

The weight is 41.9 g, 1.48 oz, or 1.35 Troy.

Overall, a nice, heavy set of Scottish Tongs, in Excellent condition for their 218 years.