Richard Morton was one of a limited number of Sheffield silver manufacturers who produced silverware prior to the establishment of the Sheffield Assay Office in 1773. He is recorded as a working silversmith in 1768 in partnership with William Clayton. His RM hallmark was entered on 16 September 1773 and not long after two further hallmarks, R.M and RM & Co were entered by Richard Morton and his business partners. It is on record that this firm was prohibited from producing silver candlesticks as that branch of the trade was being reserved for John Winter.  Richard Morton went on to manufacture a wide range of products during his career.