Question 1

How can you tell silver from silver plating?

Accepted Answer

To tell silver from silver plating, try holding a strong magnet near the item. If the magnet is attracted to the piece, it is most likely silver-plated, as solid silver is unlikely to be magnetic. You can also check the hallmarks. Markings that say silver plate, EP, EPNS, EPBM or BP indicate plating. Alternatively, you can have a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antiques dealer evaluate the piece. Explore a large selection of silver jewelry, tableware and decorative objects on 1stDibs.

Question 2

What is an antique silver plate?

Accepted Answer

Silver-plating refers to the process of applying a thin layer of silver overtop of a base metal, such as copper, nickel or pewter. An antique silver-plated item would have gone through this same process. Shop a collection of expertly vetted antique silver plate items from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 3

What is the hallmark for silver plate?

Accepted Answer

The hallmark for silver plate depends on the manufacturer. Most often, companies do not place hallmarks on silver plate. This differs from sterling silver, which usually bears a 925 mark. In some cases, companies may stamp "plated" or a similar term, but this is uncommon. On 1stDibs, find a range of silver plate serveware and decorative objects.

Question 4

What was silver plate called?

Accepted Answer

The silver plate commonly used during the 18th century is Sheffield plate. It is a combination of silver and copper. By the mid 19th century, most silver plate pieces featured electroplating. Find a collection of Sheffield plate silver ware on 1stDibs.

Question 5

What is the mark for silver-plated?

Accepted Answer

The mark for silver plating varies. In the U.S., the most common markings are EP, EPNS, A1 and B1. A UK silver plate may feature a wide range of markings. You can find pictures of these identifying marks on trusted online resources and use them to determine if a particular piece is silver-plated. Alternatively, a certified appraiser or knowledgeable dealer can assist with identification. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of silver wares.

Question 6

What is antique silver plating?

Accepted Answer

Antique silver plating is a thin layer of genuine silver applied over top of a base metal. Depending on the piece, the main metal may be copper, brass or nickel. You'll find a range of antique silver-plated decorative objects on 1stDibs.

Question 7

What is Sheffield silver plate?

Accepted Answer

Sheffield silver plate usually refers to electroplated silverware produced in Sheffield, England. Prior to electroplating, Sheffield silver was associated with a particular process of layered construction which consisted of copper and silver. Today, this older form of silver is usually referred to by collectors as “Old Sheffield Silver Plate.” Shop a collection of Sheffield silver from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 8

What is triple-plated silver?

Accepted Answer

Triple-plated silver is silverware manufactured with a certain technique. Specifically, the manufacturer has applied three layers of silver plating to the base metal during the production process to ensure its durability. You will sometimes see triple-plating described as "Treble Plate." Find a large selection of silverware from some of the world's top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 9

How do I tell if a teapot is silver or silver plated?

Accepted Answer

To tell if your teapot is silver or silver plated, look for markings. Sterling silver teapots often show some type of markings, while silver plate pieces rarely have hallmarks. An expert licensed appraiser can assist with identification. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of expertly vetted silver teapots.

Question 10

Does antique silver plate have any value?

Accepted Answer

Whether antique silverplate has any value depends on a variety of factors. The design of the piece, who made it and decoration are among the biggest determiners of value. Generally, rarer pieces that remain in good condition will be worth the most. Today, just as pewter collectibles and sterling silver are popular with collectors at neighborhood flea markets, antique Sheffield silverplate housewares are sought after for their appearance and rich history. Consider having the piece evaluated by a knowledgeable antiques dealer or certified appraiser to get an accurate estimate of how much it's worth. On 1stDibs, find antique silverplate from some of the world's top sellers.

Question 11

How do you read silver plate hallmarks?

Accepted Answer

How you read silver plate hallmarks depends on the origin of the piece. Makers in different countries utilize varying systems for hallmarking their silver plate pieces, and these systems have evolved over time. For example, some British makers indicated the highest quality of silver plate with an A1 hallmark and the second highest with an A. Since there is so much variation, the best way to interpret hallmarks on a particular piece is to consult trusted online resources, a certified appraiser or a knowledgeable antiques dealer. On 1stDibs, shop a range of silver plate pieces.

Question 12

Does silver-plated flatware tarnish?

Accepted Answer

Silver-plated flatware does tarnish.

Question 13

Are silver-plated items hallmarked?

Accepted Answer

No, silver-plated items will not have a hallmark or ‘925’ stamp. Silver-plated refers to when an item, usually brass, has been coated in a thin layer of silver. You can shop a collection of authentic silver-plated items from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

Question 14

How do you clean something that is silver plated?

Accepted Answer

Set the silver-plated item line glass bowl lined with aluminum foil. Mix boiling water with baking soda and pour over the item. After 5 to 10 minutes, remove the item, rinse under warm water, and dry.

Question 15

Is antique silver plate valuable?

Accepted Answer

While antique silver plate can be worth something, it is not usually as valuable compared with contemporary pieces or similar sterling silver antiques.

Question 16

Is silver plate worth any money?

Accepted Answer

Silver plate is generally not worth very much because the silver is simply coating a base metal. Therefore they do not hold any monetary worth.

Question 17

How can you tell if silver is solid or plated?

Accepted Answer

To tell if silver is solid or plated, try holding a magnet near it. Solid silver is not magnetic, but the base metals used in silver plating often are. As a result, if the magnet sticks strongly, the piece likely features silver plating. Another way to determine the materials is to look for markings. On silver wares produced in the U.S., the markings “STER,” “925” or “.925” usually indicate solid silver, while “EP,” “EPNS,” “A1” and “AA” typically indicate silver plating. When in doubt, seek the opinion of a knowledgeable expert, such as a certified appraiser or experienced dealer. Find a variety of silver wares on 1stDibs.

Question 18

Are silver-plated items worth anything?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some silver-plated items are worth something. Since silver plating features only a small amount of precious metal, the material itself doesn't have much value. However, silver-plated tableware, serveware and decorative objects may appeal to collectors based on their age and maker. A certified appraiser or knowledgeable antiques dealer can provide you with an estimate as to how much a particular piece may be worth. Find a wide variety of silver wares on 1stDibs.

Silver Plated Veuve

Antique 18th Century French French Provincial Delft and Faience

French Faience Hand Painted 18th Century Blue Green Veuve Perrin Signed

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Russian Empire Barware

21st Century, Champagne Cover, Solid Pure Silver, Emerald, Italy

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Contemporary Barware

K-OVER Champagne, 21st Century, Solid Pure Silver, Zebra, Italy

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Contemporary Barware

K-OVER Champagne, 21st Century, Sun customized, Solid Pure Silver, Italy

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Artisan Pitchers and Decanters

Champagne bottle K-over, Achimia, Solid Pure Italian Silver

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Renaissance Pitchers and Decanters

K-over Champagne, Door of Paradise Solid Pure Italian Silver

2010s Italian Contemporary Dinnerware and Flatware Sets

K-OVER Champagne, 21st Century, Solid Pure Silver, Kintsugi Customized, Italy

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Pitchers and Decanters

K-OVER Champagne, 21st Century, Solid Pure Silver, Moon customized, Italy

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Contemporary Pitchers and Decanters

K-OVER Champagne, 21st Century, Solid pure silver, The Kiss, Italy

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Contemporary Dinnerware and Flatwa...

K-OVER Champagne, 21st Century, Solid Pure Silver, Wood in Autumn, Italy

People Also Browsed

2010s American Modern Beaded Necklaces

Diamond Akoya Pearl 14 Karat 2-Strand Necklace Certified

1990s American Artisan Pendant Necklaces

Enamel Faberge Easter Egg Pendant Locket

2010s Top Handle Bags

Hermès Birkin 30 Niloticus Himalayan Blanc bag

Late 20th Century Italian Neoclassical Revival Decorative Art

Bacchus and Ariadne Porcelain Plates Sculpture for Wall, Cappé Signed

Vintage 1970s Contemporary Figurines and Sculptures

Salvador Dalí, golden figurine, San Carlos de Borromeo 1973, certificate

Early 20th Century French Belle Époque More Jewelry

Belle Époque Diamond Tiara

Antique 1880s Link Necklaces

Victorian Natural Pearl and Diamond Cluster Necklace

Vintage 1950s Italian Boxes and Cases

1960s Classic 18 Karat Mesh Gold and Diamond Clutch Handbag

Vintage 1940s Italian More Necklaces

Bulgari Heart Shaped Ruby Diamond Sapphire Yellow Gold Necklace Set

2010s Pendant Necklaces

Faberge 18 Carat Yellow Gold Egg Pendant F2172AR

Vintage 1960s American Drop Necklaces

Miriam Haskell Imperial Egg Necklace Necklace

21st Century and Contemporary Japanese Meiji Vases

Japanese Contemporary Green Blue Porcelain Vase by Master Artist, 3

Early 20th Century English Porcelain

Pair of Antique Royal Doulton Vases

Late 20th Century American More Rings

Cartier Diamond Sapphire Spots Onyx and Emerald Eyed Panther Ring

20th Century American Contemporary Brooches

Fancy Vivid Yellow Diamond Dragonfly Brooch

1990s Italian Evening Bags and Minaudières

Chanel Green Crocodile Alligator Vintage Mini Minuadiére Kelly Top Handle Bag

Recent Sales

1690s Old Masters Figurative Prints

Nicolas II de LarmessinHabits des Metiers et Professions, 1690

Mid-20th Century French Barware

Mid-20th Century French Silver Plate Hotel Champagne Bucket Veuve Clicquot

20th Century French Art Deco Barware

Art Deco Machine Age Champagne/Wine Cooler in Silver-Plate

20th Century French Barware

Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin Champagne Cooler

20th Century European Wine Coolers

Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin Champagne Cooler

Antique Mid-19th Century French Louis XIV Barware

19th Century French Silver Plated over Brass Champagne or Wine Cooler Bucket

Late 20th Century French Wine Coolers

20th Century French Brass Silver Plated Repousse Wine Cooler with Grape Decor

Antique Late 19th Century French Barware

Hotel Silver Champagne Bowl

20th Century American Regency Barware

Vintage Sheffield Silver Plate Ice Bucket on Stand

Mid-20th Century American Chinoiserie Wine Coolers

Vintage Chinoiserie Bentwood Rattan and Bamboo 12 Bottle Wine Rack

More Ways To Browse

Nicolas II de Larmessin
Habits des Metiers et Professions, 1690