Royal Old Britain Sheffield Silver-Plated Tray or Dish
Hollowware (likely Tray or Coaster) · Royal Old Britain Sheffield; a commercial brand typically associated with mid-to-late 20th-century silver-plated giftware. Not to be confused with historic 18th-century Old Sheffield Plate manufacturers.
Pattern: Unknown/Generic Classic Scroll Pattern
Type
Hollowware (likely Tray or Coaster)
Maker
Royal Old Britain Sheffield; a commercial brand typically associated with mid-to-late 20th-century silver-plated giftware. Not to be confused with historic 18th-century Old Sheffield Plate manufacturers.
Material
Silver plate over base metal (likely brass or nickel silver). The absence of a 'Sterling' or '925' mark confirms it is electroplated.
Dimensions
Estimated 15-25cm in diameter; lightweight construction typical of electroplated hollowware.
Description
This is a silver-plated decorative tray or small platter featuring the 'Royal Old Britain Sheffield' trademark. It is designed to emulate the prestigious 'Old Sheffield Plate' of the 18th century but is a modern electroplated alternative intended for household use or as a commemorative gift.
Key Features
Prominent ribbon-style brand stamp on the reverse; scalloped rim; absence of purity hallmarks; electroplated surface.
Material & Composition
Silver plate over base metal (likely brass or nickel silver). The absence of a 'Sterling' or '925' mark confirms it is electroplated.
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver finish with a stamped/die-struck ornate border. The decorative style mimics traditional English Rococo Revival.
Hallmarks & Stamps
A large stamped logo featuring a crown, a decorative 'C' or leaf motif, and a ribbon banner reading 'ROYAL OLD BRITAIN SHEFFIELD'. This is a manufacturer's commercial logo rather than a government-regulated hallmark.
Construction Details
Machine-stamped from a flat sheet of base metal, then electroplated with a thin layer of silver. The edges appear rolled or die-cut.
Functional Features
Flat surface for serving or display; scalloped edges to prevent items from sliding off.
Handle & Grip Details
No integral silver handles visible; a white plastic or ceramic clip/stand is currently attached to the piece.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality; die-stamped decoration rather than hand-chased. The stamp is slightly unevenly applied, typical of mass-production.
Authentication Indicators
The 'Royal Old Britain' mark is a known commercial plate mark. The lack of Britains official assay marks (Lion Passant, etc.) confirms this is not solid sterling silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
England (Sheffield style), though 'Royal Old Britain' was a trade name often used for mass-market souvenir and gift retail.
Era & Period
Mid-to-Late 20th Century (Post-WWII). Stylistically 'Traditional English' but manufactured using modern industrial methods.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1980. The stamp style and surface wear are consistent with late 20th-century production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the mid-century trend of affordable 'luxury' items where middle-class households could own silver-style serving pieces without the cost of solid sterling.
Condition Notes
Good to Fair. Visible tarnish and 'pitting' or spotting on the surface, which may indicate the silver plating is beginning to wear through to the base metal (bleeding).
Value Estimate
$10.00 - $30.00 USD. Value is decorative and functional rather than based on metal content or rarity.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream and a soft cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or 'dip' solutions, as these can strip the thin silver plating and reveal the yellow/dull base metal beneath.
Similar Pieces
International Silver Co. plated trays, Oneida silver-plated platters, or modern Sheridan silver-plate.
Interesting Facts
The name 'Royal Old Britain' is a marketing term designed to evoke a sense of heritage and high-quality 'Old Sheffield' craftsmanship, though the pieces were mass-produced.