International Silver Company Mark

tbar68 · Post by **tbar68** » Sat May 05, 2007 8:52 pm

Small tray, very heavy. Feels like holloware, but would appreciate any info. Is this plate or silver?

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Post by **2209patrick** » Sat May 05, 2007 9:20 pm

The International Silver Company was formed in 1898. On American silver, made after roughly 1860, solid silver pieces were stamped either sterling or 925. Without these marks we have to assume the item is silverplated.
International used the marks of the original companies for many years. It was not until the 1920's that they started stamping products with the International name.

Pat.

tbar68 · Post by **tbar68** » Sat May 05, 2007 9:26 pm

Thanks Pat. The only reason that I question whether it is plate or not is that it seems extremely heavy and the color is different than plate. It looks very much in color like a small R&B sterling cup that I have. It also sounds different when I tap on it. Is there anyway to tell whether it is plate or not by myself, or should I take it somewhere to have it checked?
THX
TB

Post by **2209patrick** » Sat May 05, 2007 9:41 pm

It was in the best interests of the silver manufacturers to stamp their pieces either sterling or 925. Without these marks I have to believe your piece is silverplated.

Pat.