Definition of "hall-mark" [hall•-mark]

• The official stamp of the Goldsmiths' Company and other assay offices, in the United Kingdom, on gold and silver articles, attesting their purity. (noun)
• A distinguishing characteristic or characteristics. (noun)

Gnu Collaboartive International Dictionary of English: licensed under The Code Project Open License (CPOL)

• "Old Ahuna was one of the real old ones with the hall-mark on him and branded into him of faithful born-slave service."
• "That I am marked with the hall-mark of gentlehood there is no discussion ... unless either of you care to discuss the matter now ..."
• "Sitka Charley was an Indian; his criteria were primitive; but his word was flat, and his verdict a hall-mark in every camp under the circle."