Coronet Plate E.P. Copper Lead Mounts Mini Tureen or Sugar Bowl
Hollowware (Sugar Bowl / Open Tureen) · Coronet Plate; likely a trade name used by a manufacturer such as Crescent Silverware Mfg. Co. or a Canadian subsidiary of a larger American/British silverware firm. These brands focused on high-polishing durable silver-plated goods for middle-market consumers.
Pattern: Plain/Traditional with Lead Mounts (Pattern No. 459)
Type
Hollowware (Sugar Bowl / Open Tureen)
Maker
Coronet Plate; likely a trade name used by a manufacturer such as Crescent Silverware Mfg. Co. or a Canadian subsidiary of a larger American/British silverware firm. These brands focused on high-polishing durable silver-plated goods for middle-market consumers.
Material
Silver Plate (Electroplated Plate on Copper). The base metal is copper, topped with a thin layer of silver applied via electrolysis. The 'Lead Mts' indicates the decorative mounts or handles were cast in a lead alloy for weight and detail before being plated.
Dimensions
Approximately 3 to 4 inches in height with a diameter of roughly 4.5 inches across the body. Weight is approximately 350-450 grams, feeling heavy for its size due to the lead mounts and copper core.
Description
This Coronet Plate vessel is a classic example of mid-century electroplated copper hollowware. Featuring a sturdy bulbeous body and heavy-set cast handles, the piece provides a substantial tactile experience. While not solid silver, its copper core provides excellent heat conductivity and a satisfying weight, while the high-polish silver plate offers a bright, classic aesthetic suitable for traditional table settings.
Key Features
The 'Lead Mts' stamp is the most distinctive trait; it explains the item's surprising heft and is a standard indicator of 20th-century silver-plate manufacturing techniques.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (Electroplated Plate on Copper). The base metal is copper, topped with a thin layer of silver applied via electrolysis. The 'Lead Mts' indicates the decorative mounts or handles were cast in a lead alloy for weight and detail before being plated.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish with minimal decoration; focused on a sleek, rounded silhouette. The decoration is primarily found in the 'mounts' (handles/rim) which are cast and applied. No monograms or chasing are present on this specific piece.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped on the underside: 'Coronet / PLATE / E.P. COPPER / LEAD MTS / 459'. 'E.P. Copper' confirms Electroplated Copper; 'Lead Mts' refers to the heavy cast mounts; '459' is the design or production number. No silver purity hallmarks (like a lion or '925') are present, confirming this is not sterling.
Construction Details
Machine-spun body from a flat copper sheet; handles and rim (mounts) are die-cast in lead alloy and then soldered. The entire assembly was subsequently electroplated with silver.
Functional Features
Twin side handles for transport. The piece is designed as an open serving vessel for sugar, condiments, or as part of a luncheon service. It lacks a lid in the current image though it might have originally been paired with one.
Handle & Grip Details
Cast lead-alloy handles with a simple curved profile, soldered directly to the rounded body of the bowl.
Craftsmanship Details
This is a mass-produced industrial item. The quality is found in the thickness of the plating and the seamless solder work on the handles. It is well-balanced and sturdy, reflecting the reliable manufacturing standards of the mid-20th century.
Authentication Indicators
The marks are clear and mechanically stamped. The absence of sterling marks and the presence of 'E.P. Copper' clearly identifies the item as plated ware. The uniform surface color indicates it has not been aggressively polished to the point of exposing the pinkish copper core.
Origin & Manufacturing
North America (likely Canada or the USA); Coronet Plate is often associated with the Canadian silver-plate industry of the mid-century.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (Post-WWII Industrial / 1940s-1960s). This period saw a rise in 'heavy' plated copper goods meant to mimic the look of more expensive Georgian or Sheffield plate.
Age Estimate
Circa 1945-1955. The stamp 'E.P. Copper' and the block font are indicative of this mid-century production window.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'democratization' of fine dining aesthetics in the mid-20th century. Families who could not afford solid sterling often purchased plated copper sets to maintain a formal and elegant household appearance.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. The plating appears intact with minimal wear-through to the copper (no 'bleeding'). Some light surface tarnish (patina) is visible on the underside. No visible dents or crushed bases. Grade: Very Good.
Value Estimate
$15 - $35 USD. Silver-plated hollowware as individual pieces typically have low market value compared to sterling, though they remain popular for functional use and vintage decor.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Use a mild silver polish like Wright’s Silver Cream. Avoid abrasive cleaners or heavy scrubbing, which will eventually wear away the thin silver layer and expose the copper beneath. Do not put in the dishwasher.
Similar Pieces
Benedict Proctor, Poole Silver Co., and Viking Plate pieces are very similar in quality and material (E.P. Copper). These often compete at the same price points in the vintage market.
Interesting Facts
The use of 'Lead Mounts' allowed manufacturers to create intricate decorative details that were cheaper to cast than silver but provided the heavy, luxurious feel of solid silver pieces once plated.