Spink & Son was established by John Spink, a goldsmith, who according to City of London records at the Goldsmith's Company began his apprenticeship in Lombard Street, London, in 1666. The name of Spink & Son first appears in 1772. The business probably began trading as antique dealers in late 19th century and by the 20th century were leading dealers in a wide range of antiques, but also specialised in coins and medals.
In the 1960s and 1970s there were still a few family members working at the firm, including David and Philip Spink, and a nephew, Anthony Spink. David Spink relinquished the Chairmanship of Spink in 1975, after 50 years with the company.