Wm. A. Rogers Old English Reproduction Silver-Plated Hollowware
Hollowware (likely Tray, Platter, or Serving Dish) · Wm. A. Rogers, a major American silversmith brand known for silver plating. Founded by William Augustus Rogers in the 1890s, the brand was eventually acquired by Oneida Silversmiths in 1929 and became a high-volume line for middle-class households.
Pattern: Old English Reproduction, a series inspired by 18th-century Georgian designs. Introduced in the early-to-mid 20th century, typically featuring gadroon borders and classic English silhouettes.
Type
Hollowware (likely Tray, Platter, or Serving Dish)
Maker
Wm. A. Rogers, a major American silversmith brand known for silver plating. Founded by William Augustus Rogers in the 1890s, the brand was eventually acquired by Oneida Silversmiths in 1929 and became a high-volume line for middle-class households.
Material
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS) or Silver Plate. The absence of a 'Sterling' or '.925' mark confirms this is a base metal (typically copper or nickel alloy) coated in a thin layer of silver through electrolysis.
Dimensions
Based on model 6194, typically a medium serving platter or tray ranging from 12 to 16 inches in diameter. Weight is heavy due to the base metal, usually between 800-1500 grams depending on size.
Description
An elegant example of American mass-market silver plating, this 'Old English Reproduction' capture the formality of 18th-century British dining for the modern home. The piece features the signature stamped hallmarks of the Oneida-era Wm. A. Rogers production line.
Key Features
Specific Gothic-style 'Old English Reproduction' script; block-letter 'WM. A. ROGERS' mark; model number 6194 used for inventory and ordering.
Material & Composition
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS) or Silver Plate. The absence of a 'Sterling' or '.925' mark confirms this is a base metal (typically copper or nickel alloy) coated in a thin layer of silver through electrolysis.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish on flat surfaces. The 'Old English' style usually incorporates gadrooned (roped) or scalloped edges. This specific mark is on a smooth silver-plated surface showing reflective light.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'WM. A. ROGERS' in a sans-serif block within a rectangular recessed frame; 'Old English Reproduction' in Gothic/Old English typeface style; '45' and '6194' catalog or model numbers.
Construction Details
Machine-stamped and die-struck base metal body. The decorative rim is often applied and soldered. The piece is then finished with electroplating.
Functional Features
Functional serving surface, often with a raised lip to contain spills. May include integrated handles depending on the specific form of model 6194.
Handle & Grip Details
Typically features solid silver-plated cast handles if it is a trophy or large tray; otherwise, simple rimmed edges.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial manufacturing. The stamping is deep and clear, and the plating is thick enough to withstand decades of polishing without wearing through to the base metal.
Authentication Indicators
The marks are consistent with mid-century Oneida/Rogers production. The use of the word 'Reproduction' and the lack of sterling hallmarks or the 'Lion Passant' provide clear evidence of silver plate status.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States, likely manufactured in Sherrill, New York, or Wallingford, Connecticut, following the acquisition by Oneida.
Era & Period
Mid-Century / Traditional Revival (c. 1930s-1950s). The design mimics the Georgian Era (1714-1837) but was manufactured for the 20th-century consumer market.
Age Estimate
Circa 1930-1960. The font styles and the 'Wm. A. Rogers' branding consistency suggest a mid-20th century production date.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'democratization of luxury' in the 20th century, allowing middle-class families to own formal-looking silver services that resembled the aristocratic wares of the previous century.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The plating appears intact with no 'bleeding' (base metal showing through). Light surface scratches and minor tarnish consistent with age. No evidence of heavy pitting or corrosion.
Value Estimate
$20 - $65 USD. Silver-plated items from this era have high decorative value but low intrinsic metal value compared to sterling silver.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soap and water. Use non-abrasive silver creams like Wright's. Avoid automated dishwashers, which will strip the silver plating over time. Store in acid-free tissue or anti-tarnish bags.
Similar Pieces
Sheffield Plate originals (much older, fused silver); Gorham Sterling Old French (more expensive, solid silver); Reed & Barton silver-plated trays.
Interesting Facts
The Rogers family name was so prestigious in 19th-century silver that many companies legally included 'Rogers' in their names to trade on the reputation, leading to complex trademark lawsuits in American silver history.