Authenticity & Description Standard
This page explains how Faridunhill identifies, dates, and grades every item — and exactly what our descriptions do and do not promise.
1.How We Identify
Each pipe is examined in hand under proper light. Maker, shape, finish, and era are established from the item's own evidence — stampings, hallmarks, shape numbers, construction details — checked against period nomenclature and our reference archive. Shape numbers are treated as the maker's internal catalog codes, read within that maker's system.
2.How We Date
Dating follows the stamp: a date is stated only when the item's markings support it against documented maker nomenclature. Where the evidence supports only a range, we state the range. Where a marking is illegible or ambiguous, we say so plainly rather than guess.
3.How We Grade Condition
Condition is graded on a defined five-tier scale from Mint/Unsmoked through Fair/Display, with every material flaw disclosed by location and extent. A disclosed flaw is a fact of the item's history, not a secret — cracked or imperfect pieces are offered honestly as display and collector pieces at prices that reflect their condition.
4.What Our Descriptions Are — and Are Not
Identification and dating reflect our informed opinion based on the item's markings and our reference archive, with confidence levels shown where relevant. This is not a certification or appraisal. Inspect on receipt; condition and authenticity are the buyer's to verify within the return window. When we are wrong, our Returns Policy puts the cost on us, not on you.