International Silver Co. Fluted Sterling Silver Platter / Tray
Hollowware - Tray or Platter · International Silver Co. (ISC), a major American conglomerate formed in 1898 in Meriden, Connecticut, combining numerous silver manufacturers such as Rogers, Wm. Rogers & Son, and Holmes & Edwards. Known for mass-producing high-quality domestic sterling and silverplate tableware.
Pattern: Fluted or Gadroon/Ribbed edge pattern, popular in mid-20th-century traditional table service.
Type
Hollowware - Tray or Platter
Maker
International Silver Co. (ISC), a major American conglomerate formed in 1898 in Meriden, Connecticut, combining numerous silver manufacturers such as Rogers, Wm. Rogers & Son, and Holmes & Edwards. Known for mass-producing high-quality domestic sterling and silverplate tableware.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity), as indicated by the stamped 'STERLING' hallmark.
Dimensions
Estimated medium serving size, approximately 10 to 12 inches in diameter, standard for small serving platters or underplates.
Description
An elegant American sterling silver platter featuring a brilliant mirror-polished center surrounded by a striking, deep-fluted scalloped border. The reverse displays the clear trademark scales of the International Silver Company alongside the sterling designation and production numbers.
Key Features
Distinctive deeply fluted and scalloped rim; clearly struck International Silver scales hallmark with 'STERLING' mark.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity), as indicated by the stamped 'STERLING' hallmark.
Finish & Decoration
Polished center field with concentric lathe-turning or cleaning marks, framed by an elaborately fluted, scalloped rim creating dynamic light-reflecting facets.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Features the International Silver Co. hallmark (scales symbol above the letters IS, flanked by a lion and a knight), followed by the word 'STERLING' and an inventory/pattern number 'X307'.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed and die-struck from a single sheet of sterling silver, evidenced by the uniform fluting and concentric circular polish lines on the base.
Functional Features
Raised circular foot ring for stability on flat surfaces; sloped, fluted rim to easily contain small food items or catch condensation.
Handle & Grip Details
Rimless handled tray design relies on the textured fluted edge to provide a secure grip when lifting.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality commercial press work with clean, symmetrical fluting and a well-defined raised base rim, showcasing robust mid-century American manufacturing standards.
Authentication Indicators
The authentic International Silver Co. scales trademark, accompanied by the word 'STERLING' and a stamped production number (X307), confirms its metal composition and manufacturer.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in the United States, likely produced at one of the International Silver Co. factories in Connecticut, adhering to American sterling standards.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (circa 1930s-1950s), reflecting traditional Colonial Revival and neo-classical design influences popular in American homes.
Age Estimate
Circa 1930 to 1960, based on the specific International Silver Co. maker's mark style and font of the pattern number.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-WWII American domestic ideal, where formal dining accessories like sterling platters were prized centerpieces for family gatherings and holidays.
Condition Notes
Very good vintage condition. The surface shows light, fine micro-scratches consistent with careful use and polishing over the decades. No deep dents, structural damage, or repairs noted.
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges between $150 to $350 USD depending on exact weight, current silver spot prices, and collector demand for serving pieces.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild dish soap and warm water if needed. Polish occasionally with a reputable cream silver polish using soft microfiber cloths, avoiding abrasive pads. Store in a tarnish-resistant flannel bag or a dry environment.
Similar Pieces
Similar fluted sterling platters produced by Gorham, Reed & Barton, or Wallace Silversmiths during the same mid-century era.
Interesting Facts
The International Silver Company was once the largest manufacturer of silver tableware in the world, supplying households across America during the mid-20th century.