Wm. Rogers & Son Silverplated Flatware Piece with 'IS' Mark
Flatware - Serving Piece or Utensil · Wm. Rogers & Son, an affiliate and trademark of the International Silver Co. (IS), known for producing accessible, high-quality silverplate flatware in the United States.
Pattern: Standard mid-20th-century production pattern line by International Silver Company, though specific ornamental pattern details are obscured.
Type
Flatware - Serving Piece or Utensil
Maker
Wm. Rogers & Son, an affiliate and trademark of the International Silver Co. (IS), known for producing accessible, high-quality silverplate flatware in the United States.
Material
Silver Plated (EPNS or silver-plated base metal alloy, typically nickel silver or brass base), indicated by the 'A1' quality mark denoting standard silver plating thickness.
Dimensions
Standard utility flatware proportions, typically measuring approximately 15 to 20 cm in length for standard dining flatware, with lightweight silverplated construction.
Description
A classic mid-century American silverplated flatware piece produced by Wm. Rogers & Son under the International Silver Company umbrella. The reverse of the handle prominently displays the maker's stamp alongside the 'A1' quality designation, indicating standard electroplated silver over a base metal alloy. This piece represents the accessible and durable tableware widely found in American households during the mid-20th century.
Key Features
Clear manufacturer stamp 'WM. ROGERS & S' with flanking star symbols, 'A1' plating quality mark, and the 'IS' (International Silver) stamp indicating corporate consolidation era production.
Material & Composition
Silver Plated (EPNS or silver-plated base metal alloy, typically nickel silver or brass base), indicated by the 'A1' quality mark denoting standard silver plating thickness.
Finish & Decoration
Smooth polished finish with standard manufacturing contours typical of mid-century American silverplated utility flatware.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Impressed maker's marks reading 'IS' (International Silver), 'WM ROGERS & S' flanked by star symbols, and the quality grade mark 'A1'.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured and die-struck from a base metal alloy, then electroplated with a thin layer of pure silver.
Functional Features
Designed for standard dining or serving utility, featuring a utilitarian handle and durable base structure meant for everyday household use.
Handle & Grip Details
Integral flatware handle formed from the same die-struck base metal piece as the bowl or tines, offering a standard ergonomic grip.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial factory production utilizing industrial die-striking and electroplating techniques designed for mass market durability rather than hand-wrought luxury craftsmanship.
Authentication Indicators
Authentic mid-century American silverplate marking system. The inclusion of 'WM ROGERS & S', the star symbols, 'A1', and 'IS' are consistent with genuine International Silver Company manufacturing practices of the era.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in the United States by the International Silver Company, which consolidated numerous historic American silver manufacturers.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century / Post-War Era (c. 1940s-1960s), evidenced by the standard use of the 'IS' mark alongside traditional Rogers branding.
Age Estimate
Circa mid-20th century, roughly 1940 to 1965, based on the specific combination of the Wm. Rogers & Son trademark and the 'IS' block stamp.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the democratization of silver tableware in the 20th century, allowing middle-class households to set elegant tables using durable silverplated flatware.
Condition Notes
Moderate surface tarnish and minor handling wear visible on the metal surface, with structural integrity remaining solid. No major plate loss is evident in the detailed hallmark zone. Grade: Very Good.
Value Estimate
Low market value range ($5 to $20 USD), as individual silverplated utility pieces are common and primarily valued for practical use, replacement sets, or crafting rather than precious metal bullion value.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft cloth. Polish occasionally with a dedicated silver cream safe for plated items (such as Wright's Silver Cream) to avoid abrading the thin silver layer.
Similar Pieces
Other mid-century silverplated flatware patterns by 1847 Rogers Bros, Holmes & Edwards, or Oneida, which utilized similar quality marks like 'A1' and 'IS'.
Interesting Facts
The 'Wm. Rogers' name has a complex history in American silversmithing, originating with the Rogers brothers in Hartford, Connecticut, who pioneered electroplating techniques in the United States before their trademarks were acquired by the International Silver Co.