Mid-Century Silver Plated Pierced Bottle Coaster
Wine/Bottle Coaster · Likely a mass-market manufacturer such as International Silver, Towle, or Sheridan. The generic design suggests a mid-tier commercial producer active in the 20th century.
Pattern: Generic Pierced Lattice pattern; not part of a specific named luxury collection, likely produced as a utilitarian barware item.
Type
Wine/Bottle Coaster
Maker
Likely a mass-market manufacturer such as International Silver, Towle, or Sheridan. The generic design suggests a mid-tier commercial producer active in the 20th century.
Material
Silver plate over base metal (likely copper or brass). The yellowish hue where the silver has worn away (visible through the tarnish) indicates a base metal substrate rather than solid sterling.
Dimensions
Approximately 4.5 to 5 inches in diameter, 2 inches high. It is light-weight, estimated at 150-200 grams, consistent with thin-gauge silver plated hollowware.
Description
A circular bottle coaster featuring a continuous band of diamond-shaped piercings. This piece serves a dual purpose as both a functional bar accessory and a decorative tabletop element. Its elevated design, supported by four flared feet, provides a formal touch to casual dining.
Key Features
Die-cut lattice gallery, wing-shaped feet, thin-gauge plating, and functional vertical handles.
Material & Composition
Silver plate over base metal (likely copper or brass). The yellowish hue where the silver has worn away (visible through the tarnish) indicates a base metal substrate rather than solid sterling.
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver plate with a die-cut geometric lattice piercing. It features small applied bird-wing or scalloped feet and a simple rolled rim.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible in the image. Typically, these items would be stamped 'Silver Plate' or 'EPNS' (Electroplated Nickel Silver) on the underside of the rim or the base.
Construction Details
Machine-made; the body is a die-stamped cylinder with machine-punched piercings. The scalloped feet and handles are soldered to the main body.
Functional Features
Designed to hold a standard wine or liquor bottle to prevent condensation or drips from staining tabletop surfaces. Includes a pierced gallery to allow air circulation.
Handle & Grip Details
Features small, thin-gauge vertical handles (upper handle visible) and four stylized wing-shaped feet for elevated stability.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced quality; evident machine-stamping and basic soldering. Lacks the hand-chasing or heavy gauge found in premium silversmithing.
Authentication Indicators
The uniform machine-cut piercings and thin soldering points are diagnostic of mid-century silver plate. The lack of hallmark 'purity' stamps (like .925) confirms it is not sterling silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or England. These were staple products of companies based in Meriden, CT or Sheffield, UK during the mid-to-late 20th century.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Post-War Era (1950s-1970s). The simplistic geometric pattern is a 20th-century interpretation of 18th-century pierced Georgian coasters.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1975. The sticker suggests a modern resale context, and the wear patterns are consistent with several decades of storage.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war boom in home entertaining and 'cocktail culture' where silver-plated accessories became affordable status symbols for the middle-class household.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Significant tarnish (oxidation) is present across the surface with some 'bleeding' of the base metal. Structural integrity remains intact, but the plating is thin in high-friction areas.
Value Estimate
$10 - $25 USD. The $6.00 price on the sticker is a typical 'thrift' or 'yard sale' price, whereas an antique shop might list it closer to $20.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream (e.g., Wright's) and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners that will strip the remaining thin silver layer. Dry immediately to prevent water spots.
Similar Pieces
Sheffield Plate Georgian Coasters (authentic 18th C. versions are thicker with wood bases); Gorham Sterling Coasters (solid silver, significantly heavier and more valuable).
Interesting Facts
Coasters were originally called 'sliders' in the 18th century because they were designed to be slid across polished mahogany tables during formal dinners.