Reed & Barton Silver-Plated Flatware (Likely 18th Century Pattern or Plain Service)
Flatware (Likely a Spoon or Fork handle) · Reed & Barton, Taunton, Massachusetts. Established in 1824, they became one of America's most prestigious silversmiths, known for high-quality silver plate and sterling lines.
Pattern: Unidentified due to orientation and tarnish; however, Reed & Barton produced iconic patterns like 'Chantilly' and 'Francis I'. This piece appears to be a simpler, more utilitarian pattern.
Type
Flatware (Likely a Spoon or Fork handle)
Maker
Reed & Barton, Taunton, Massachusetts. Established in 1824, they became one of America's most prestigious silversmiths, known for high-quality silver plate and sterling lines.
Material
Silver Plate (likely EPNS - Electroplated Nickel Silver). The absence of a 'Sterling' or '.925' mark alongside the maker's stamp strongly indicates a plated base metal.
Dimensions
Estimated handle width 1.5 cm; weight is negligible as a single piece of plated flatware, likely between 40-60 grams depending on whether it is a spoon or fork.
Description
A classic piece of American silver-plated flatware from the renowned maker Reed & Barton. This item represents the durable, high-quality plated goods designed for the mid-century American household, featuring the manufacturer's iconic block-letter stamp.
Key Features
Distinct 'REED & BARTON' manufacturer stamp and a specific rectangular date/lot code 'D' which serves as the primary identifier.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (likely EPNS - Electroplated Nickel Silver). The absence of a 'Sterling' or '.925' mark alongside the maker's stamp strongly indicates a plated base metal.
Finish & Decoration
Currently heavily tarnished/oxidized with a golden-brown patina. The handle appears to have a plain or fiddle-back design, consistent with Mid-Century or late Victorian everyday service.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'REED & BARTON' in block letters. There is a small rectangular cartouche or date code 'D' visible above the name, which was a common dating convention for the manufacturer.
Construction Details
Die-struck and machine-manufactured. This is a mass-produced piece of commercial quality where the silver layer was applied via electroplating over a base metal blank.
Functional Features
Tapered handle for grip; standard utilitarian flatware meant for daily dining use rather than ceremonial presentation.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid metal handle (not hollow). The shape is a standard flat-stem design, currently showing significant surface oxidation.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality; consistent stamping and smooth machine-finished edges, typical of large-scale American silver manufacturing.
Authentication Indicators
Markings are consistent with authentic Reed & Barton plating from the mid-20th century. The lack of a 'Sterling' mark confirms it is not solid silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in Taunton, Massachusetts, USA. Reed & Barton was a cornerstone of the American silver industry in 'Silver City'.
Era & Period
Modern/Mid-20th Century (estimated 1940-1960). The block lettering of the stamp is consistent with post-WWII production markings.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950. The 'D' date code and the typography of the 'REED & BARTON' stamp align with mid-century silverplate production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury in post-war America, where silver-plated sets allowed middle-class families to follow formal dining etiquette.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor. Significant tarnish and oxidation (sulfide build-up) are present. There is likely 'bleeding' where the silver plate has worn away to reveal the base metal underneath.
Value Estimate
$1 - $5 USD. As an individual piece of tarnished silverplate, it has minimal resale value beyond its utility or as a replacement piece for a matching set.
Care & Maintenance
Requires a non-abrasive silver cream (like Wright's). Do not use 'dips' as they can strip the thin silver layer and expose the nickel-brass base.
Similar Pieces
International Silver Co. and Oneida produced very similar plated lines. The main difference is the specific font of the maker's mark and the internal dating symbols.
Interesting Facts
Reed & Barton famously produced the medals for the 1996 Summer Olympics and supplied the White House with silver services.