Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
What is antique sterling silver?
1 Answer

Sterling silver is an alloyed form of silver, and is made up of 92.5% fine silver and 7.5% copper. An antique sterling silver item will have the same silver content and will be over 100 years old. Shop a collection of expertly vetted antique sterling silver from some of the worlds top sellers on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Related Questions
- Why is sterling silver called sterling?1 Answer
- Is antique sterling silver valuable?1 Answer
- How can I tell if sterling silver is antique?1 Answer
- Is Thai silver sterling silver?1 Answer
- What is sterling silver made of?1 Answer
Shop for Bailey Banks & Biddle Sterling Silver on 1stDibs
DANIEL & ARTER 1900 London, Bailey Banks & Biddle 6 Pieces Cruet Set Cut Glass
By Daniel & Arter, Bailey, Banks & Biddle
Located in Miami, FL
Cruet set made by Daniel & Arter for Bailey Banks & Biddle.
Here we are offering a beautiful & elegant late Victorian silver & hand-cut glass six bottle cruet in its original stand. This rare piece was made in Birmingham England, circa 1890-1900 by the maker's and silversmiths of Daniel & Arter. This set was retailed in America by the Bailey Banks & Biddle, a luxury company based in Philadelphia and New York City.
Bailey Banks & Biddle
Bailey Banks & Biddle is an American jewelry firm that formed in 1832 and quickly became a recognized leader in jewelry fashion. The firm developed a reputation for offering high quality, well-designed jewelry as evidenced by its commissions to design the first 40,000 Purple Hearts for the United States military as well as to create the Naval Academy and West Point class rings. Bailey Biddle & Banks, was originally known as Bailey & Kitchen. Was founded at 136 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, on September 20, 1832, by Joseph Trowbridge Bailey and Andrew B. Kitchen. This makes Bailey Banks & Biddle the Oldest Nationwide Jeweler in America and quickly became a recognized leader in the jewelry fashion. By the late 19th century, the firm’s reputation was solidified as one of the country’s leading jewelers and go-to source for all manner of fine things. The partnership was dissolved in November 1846. It was reformed with new partners as Bailey & Co. in 1841, and on March 1, 1878, again re-established as Bailey Banks & Biddle. From about 1852-1862, the company made its own silver; they were principally supplied by Taylor and Lawrie before 1852, and from about 1862-1870, by George B...
Category
Antique 1890s English Late Victorian Sterling Silver
Materials
Silver
Bailey, Banks & Biddle Sterling Silver Porringer from 1893
By Bailey, Banks & Biddle
Located in New York, NY
Bailey, Banks & Biddle sterling silver porringer bowl, with a pierced handle and curvilinear motifs adorning the rim. It measures 7 3/8'' in depth by 4 3/4'' in diameter by 1 1/2'' i...
Category
Antique 1890s American Sterling Silver
Materials
Silver, Sterling Silver
Wonderful Bailey Banks & Biddle Co. Sterling Silver Pedestal Centerpiece Bowl
By Bailey, Banks & Biddle
Located in Roslyn, NY
A wonderful Bailey Banks and Biddle sterling silver 12.5" round bowl with beautiful fine etched design.
Marked
S 925 BBB
Bailey ...
Category
Vintage 1920s American Belle Époque Sterling Silver
Materials
Sterling Silver
Wonderful Bailey Banks Biddle Company Sterling Oval Jewelry Keepsake Footed Box
By Bailey, Banks & Biddle
Located in Roslyn, NY
A wonderful Bailey Banks & Biddle Company sterling oval jewelry keepsake footed box.
Category
20th Century North American Belle Époque Sterling Silver
Materials
Sterling Silver
Sterling Silver Basket
By Bailey, Banks & Biddle
Located in Brooklyn, NY
We are delighted to offer you this sterling silver basket with a cobalt blue liner. An elaborate pattern of clustered fruit and flowers decorate the sides of the basket. The cobalt g...
Category
Vintage 1910s American Sterling Silver
Materials
Sterling Silver
Tazz by Bailey, Banks and Biddle
By Bailey, Banks & Biddle
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Proudly offering this lovely tazz on pedestal by Bailey, Banks and Biddle. The craftsmanship and attention to detail is self evident. A delicate patt...
Category
Vintage 1930s American Sterling Silver
Materials
Sterling Silver