'argentry' originates from Middle English, specifically from Old French 'argenterie', ultimately from Latin 'argentum' meaning 'silver'.

'argentry' developed from Old French 'argenterie' (meaning 'silverware') into Middle English forms such as 'argenterie'/'argentery' and eventually appeared in modern English as 'argentry' (now rare/archaic).

Initially it referred specifically to 'silver' or 'silverware'; over time it was also used collectively for 'silver coinage' or 'money' but has since become rare or archaic in modern usage.