Silver-Plated Stemmed Goblet or Egg Cup
Hollowware (Goblet/Trophy Cup Form) · Generic Manufacturer; likely a mass-market silver plate producer such as Leonard, Sheridan, or International Silver Co.
Pattern: Plain/Traditional stems; no specific named pattern is visible on the undecorated surface.
Type
Hollowware (Goblet/Trophy Cup Form)
Maker
Generic Manufacturer; likely a mass-market silver plate producer such as Leonard, Sheridan, or International Silver Co.
Material
Silver plate over base metal (likely brass or nickel silver/EPNS). Presence of 'bleeding' (base metal showing through) and corrosion suggests a thin electroplate layer.
Dimensions
Estimated height: 10-13 cm (4-5 inches); Diameter of base: 6-7 cm. Estimated weight: 150-250 grams based on size and hollow construction.
Description
A modest silver-plated goblet featuring a classic flared bowl and a stepped circular foot. The piece lacks ornate decoration, relying on its clean lines and reflective surface for appeal. It represents typical mid-priced household silver plate found in department stores during the late 20th century.
Key Features
Seamless appearance of the cup, stepped circular base, and common corrosion spots ('pep marks') typical of electroplated nickel silver.
Material & Composition
Silver plate over base metal (likely brass or nickel silver/EPNS). Presence of 'bleeding' (base metal showing through) and corrosion suggests a thin electroplate layer.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish with extensive tarnish and surface oxidation. Minimalist design with no chasing or engraving; features a simple stepped base and a turned-style stem.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible hallmarks in the image; likely stamped 'Silver Plate', 'EPNS', or a manufacturer's mark on the underside of the base which is currently obscured by shadow and tarnish.
Construction Details
Machine-spun or die-cast components. The base and cup are likely separate pieces joined by a threaded rod or solder at the stem. Hollow, non-weighted base.
Functional Features
Stemmed design to prevent heat transfer from hands; flared rim for drinking or holding an egg.
Handle & Grip Details
A simple, slender integrated stem with a central knop for grip. No separate handles.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced quality; machine-finished edges. The symmetry is precise, indicating industrial lathe work rather than hand-hammered origins.
Authentication Indicators
Lack of 'Sterling' or '.925' marks; color of tarnish (yellowish/grey) suggests silver plate; mold and production marks consistent with commercial manufacturing rather than hand-wrought craftsmanship.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely USA or East Asia (Japan/Hong Kong) mass-production origins, common in the 1960s-1980s giftware market.
Era & Period
Mid-to-late 20th Century (Modern Era). Stylistically neutral, drawing from Georgian revival cues popular in mid-century tabletop decor.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-1990. The wear patterns and tarnish style are consistent with late 20th-century silver plate.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of 'silver' luxury in the mid-20th century, where silver-plated items allowed middle-class households to emulate formal dining traditions without the cost of sterling.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor condition. Notable heavy tarnish and oxidation inside the base. Possible silver loss (pitting) on the rim and exterior. Surface shows fine scratches and lack of luster. Grade: Fair.
Value Estimate
$5.00 - $15.00 USD. Value is purely decorative as the silver content is negligible and the piece is in used condition.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild dish soap and warm water; use a non-abrasive silver cream like Wright's. Avoid silver dips as they can strip the thin plating. Store in a dry place to prevent further pitting.
Similar Pieces
Gorham sterling goblets (which would be heavier and hallmarked), or pewter library cups which have a duller, matte finish.
Interesting Facts
Stemmed goblets like these were frequently sold in pairs or sets of four as wedding gifts or 'communion' style sets for home use in the 1970s.