Silver-Plated Rocking Horse Decorative Box or Bank
Decorative Object / Nursery Collectible · Likely Towle, Leonard, or Reed & Barton; mass-produced by mid-to-high-tier silver companies for the giftware market.
Pattern: Traditional Nursery / Rocking Horse Series
Type
Decorative Object / Nursery Collectible
Maker
Likely Towle, Leonard, or Reed & Barton; mass-produced by mid-to-high-tier silver companies for the giftware market.
Material
Silver Plate over base metal (likely zinc alloy or white metal). There is no 'Sterling' visible, and the oxidation color suggests electroplated nickel silver (EPNS) or a similar alloy.
Dimensions
Estimated 4-5 inches in length, 3-4 inches in height. Heavy for its size due to the cast white-metal core, likely 200-300 grams.
Description
This silver-plated rocking horse is a charming example of late 20th-century nursery silver. Featuring a playful, prancing silhouette, the horse is adorned with a blanket of flowers and a textured saddle. The rocker base is heavily decorated with an array of daisies and foliage, resting on a geometric border. Its dark tarnish highlights the relief details, giving it an 'antique' appearance that mimics Victorian heirlooms.
Key Features
Stylized floral rocker base, textured mane and tail, and the lack of 'Sterling' marks indicating a plated giftware item.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate over base metal (likely zinc alloy or white metal). There is no 'Sterling' visible, and the oxidation color suggests electroplated nickel silver (EPNS) or a similar alloy.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized satin finish with repoussé-style embossed details. Featuring floral motifs on the rocker base, a textured mane, and a harness. Includes a geometric 'stair-step' or 'diamond' chevron pattern along the bottom edge of the rocker.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible in the photo; likely stamped on the bottom with the maker's logo and 'Silverplate' or 'EP'. Marks are frequently found hidden on the underside of the rocker or inside the base.
Construction Details
Two-part die-cast construction. The piece is likely hollow and joined at a central seam. The surface is machine-stamped or cast rather than hand-chased, evidenced by the uniform repetition of the floral pattern.
Functional Features
Likely a decorative bank with a stopper at the bottom, or a hinged keepsake box for a baby's first tooth/curl.
Handle & Grip Details
None; the sculptural form of the horse acts as the 'grip' if the piece is a lidded box.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-cast with a consistent mold. The lack of sharp detail in the eyes and flowers points to a high-volume manufacturing process.
Authentication Indicators
The soft, rounded edges of the casting suggest a mass-market production rather than a high-end silversmith's hand-wrought work. The tarnish color is consistent with silverplate on white metal.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in the United States or Japan for the retail market (department stores like Macy's or jewelry stores).
Era & Period
Modern / Late 20th Century (1980s-2000s); a revival of Victorian nursery aesthetics popular in late-century giftware.
Age Estimate
Circa 1985-1995. The design and finish are characteristic of the 'Victorian Revival' trend of that era.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the late-century sentimentality toward 'Old World' childhood imagery and the accessibility of silver-styled luxury for the middle class through plating.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. There is significant uneven tarnish (sulfide deposits) across the body. Some wear-through of the plating (bleeding) may be present on the high points like the horse's ears and nose.
Value Estimate
$15 - $35 USD. Value is driven by sentimental or decorative appeal rather than metal content.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream like Wright's. Avoid over-polishing as the silver layer is likely thin; excessive rubbing may expose the dull grey base metal beneath.
Similar Pieces
Godinger Silver Art Co. Rocking Horse, Empire Silver Sterling Rocking Horse (which would be thinner and hallmarked), and pewter versions by Seagull Studios.
Interesting Facts
Rocking horse silver items became a staple 'New Baby' gift in the 1980s, often given as christening gifts or to celebrate a first birthday.