Vintage Silver Plated Octagonal Coaster or Tray
Hollowware (Coaster / Small Tray) · Unidentified Maker (Marked with initials or logo resembling 'D' or similar cartouche)
Pattern: Plain Octagonal Rim Line, mid-20th century standard commercial production
Type
Hollowware (Coaster / Small Tray)
Maker
Unidentified Maker (Marked with initials or logo resembling 'D' or similar cartouche)
Material
Silver Plate over a base metal (likely nickel silver, brass, or copper core)
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of approximately 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) suitable for a small coaster or underplate; weight is light to moderate consistent with silver plate over base metal
Description
A charming and practical vintage silver plated tray or coaster featuring a clean, geometric octagonal form with a stepped rim. The surface shows characteristic signs of gentle use with fine surface scratches and light tarnish accumulating in the recesses, adding an authentic vintage patina. The backstamp near the interior wall identifies it as a piece of commercial silverplate hollowware, designed for everyday dining elegance.
Key Features
Distinctive octagonal geometry, clean minimalist aesthetic, visible manufacturer stamp and serial numbering
Material & Composition
Silver Plate over a base metal (likely nickel silver, brass, or copper core)
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish with a stepped octagonal rim, minimalist and functional style typical of Mid-Century Modern or late Art Deco utility ware
Hallmarks & Stamps
Visible maker's mark comprising a stylized letter or cartouche next to numbers (possibly '1417' or similar serial/pattern numbers), indicating standard commercial silver plating marks rather than British or European precious metal hallmarks
Construction Details
Machine-stamped and formed sheet metal with a raised border, standard commercial manufacturing techniques of the 20th century
Functional Features
Raised octagonal gallery rim designed to contain moisture or keep glassware secure, intended as a table coaster or small serving dish
Handle & Grip Details
Rimless handle design relying entirely on the raised octagonal edge for gripping and moving
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial industrial manufacturing utilizing press-forming and electroplating techniques rather than hand-raising, representing efficient mid-century factory production quality.
Authentication Indicators
Commercial maker stamps lacking traditional precious metal lion or sterling marks confirm silver-plated status. Wear patterns show typical softening of the plate over softer base metals.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in the United States, United Kingdom, or Europe by a commercial metalware factory
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (c. 1930s-1960s)
Age Estimate
Circa 1940-1960 based on the clean geometric lines and style of the maker's stamp
Cultural Significance
Reflects the post-war domestic focus on accessible table elegance, cocktail culture, and the widespread adoption of silver-plated hollowware for everyday dining and entertaining rituals.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition. The surface displays moderate scratching and typical wear consistent with age and use. Silver plating remains largely intact with minor signs of underlying base metal showing through on high friction points or cleaning areas. Grade: Very Good for a vintage utility piece.
Value Estimate
Modest collector or decorative market value ranging from $15 to $45 USD depending on the exact maker and overall surface condition.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a soft cloth and a mild silver cream like Wright's Silver Cream. Avoid harsh abrasive scrubbing to prevent wearing through the thin silver plate layer. Store in a dry environment.
Similar Pieces
Similar octagonal and round silver-plated coasters produced by major manufacturers such as Wallace, International Silver, or various Sheffield plate makers.
Interesting Facts
Octagonal coasters and small trays became exceedingly popular during the Art Deco and Mid-Century periods as cocktail culture and formal home entertaining expanded into middle-class households.