Although the term is used loosely these days, the word ‘silver’ should strictly speaking only be applied to an item of solid silver. More commonly found is what we call ‘silver plate’, a technique whereby a base metal item has a fine layer of silver applied to it. The technique of plating to resemble silver dates back to the mid/late eighteenth century in the form of Sheffield plate, (which in itself can be quite collectable). In this country, a real or solid silver piece must bear a series of marks known as hallmarks which tie up to verify the piece is silver and not plated. Be careful though as these special marks were imitated and used on plated goods sometimes to deceive. A common mistake is to think the knives and forks granny always thought were silver because of the stamps, are in fact electroplated and of little value. It is always worth checking though.
We have the oldest system of hallmarking which dates from around 1300 AD when statutes regarding silver fineness were enforced by means of testing and the authentification stamps applied. The town and makers’ marks are self explanatory as these identify where and by whom the piece was made. The lion mark denotes Sterling standard silver and this was introduced in around 1544 and still in use today.
Being a precious metal, silver has a certain content or ‘scrap’ value based on the weight. However, this has less relevance today when relating to older/antique pieces as it is the form, date and maker which ultimately determine the value. For example a Victorian castle top snuff box by Birmingham’s Nathaniel Mills will be more sought after than a 1920’s fruit bowl, despite the bowl being the weightier piece. A very heavy piece of silver whatever it is will naturally carry a hefty price tag and signals quality.
In the current market of antiques and collecting areas, it is pieces that accurately reflect the era in which they were made are most sought after. 1950’s, 60’s and 70’s pieces by talented silversmiths such as Robert Welch or Gerald Benney are fetching impressive sums in the auction rooms with prices to rival antique pieces. Art Deco and the earlier Arts and Crafts/Art Nouveau influenced pieces are still proving popular. The Art Nouveau easel photograph frame made by Walker & Hall, Sheffield in 1899 recently sold for £180 at auction. Pieces such as this are highly commercial as they make very special gifts and complement current interior design tastes.#
Cased silver coffee spoons, pocket cigarette and vesta cases are not uncommon at auctions. It is usually small out of ordinary/novelty or early pieces that attract the high sums. They are easier to ship to collectors throughout the world and the repertoire in the collecting field can be endless.
Card cases, scent bottles and nutmeg graters are popular collecting areas. The tiny saucepan on stand illustrated measures just 12cm high. Called a brandy saucepan it was used for warming brandy. The stand contains a small burner and each piece is hallmarked for London 1873. Consigned from a local estate, it sold at a Fine Art Sale recently for £200.
If you have silver or plated items it is well worth bringing them along to a specialist for assessment as values are constantly changing. Free valuations of all antiques, jewellery and collectables are held at our salerooms and valuation offices throughout the Midlands. Phone 01283 511224 or email
burton@richardwinterton.co.uk for directions/times or if you have large consignments you would like advice upon.
