This information has been updated with many thanks to Miles Harrison, who has recently published a new book "Exeter and West Country silver 1700-1900".  This is an extremely comprehensive book and can be bought directly from Miles - simply click HERE

Richard Jenkins is an important Exeter maker.  He sent work for assay between 1765 through to 1806. Richard Jenkins is often confused with Richard Jewesson of Sheffield. This need not happen as the Exeter hall-marks are quite different and recognisable. Richard Jenkins used two maker’s marks, one in a rectangular punch, and another slightly smaller in a rectangular punch with cut corners. Alexander Jenkins also registered a mark but we do not know for sure whether they are related. Alexander Jenkins worked mainly as a jeweller, but did have occasional pieces of work assayed, for example on 30th August 1796 he sent "1 rim & handle for a glass bowl" to be assayed.
Richard Jenkins' last work sent for assay was on 13th October 1806 when he sent 2 Toast Racks for Assay. During the year 1806/07, Richard Jenkins was a Warden & there is also an entry in the log for some time during that year that Richard Ferris had been appointed Warden in his place due to him being deceased. Richard Jenkins' will was proved on 21st February 1807, with Richard Ferris as a witness.