Benedict Silver Co. Silver-Plated Pierced Serving Server / Dish Form 211
Hollowware / Serving Piece · Benedict Manufacturing Company (often marked Benedict), founded in East Syracuse, New York. Known for silver-plated hollowware, novelties, and metal goods. A prominent American manufacturer active through the mid-20th century.
Pattern: Utility or standard serving hollowware line, marked with shape/pattern number 211. No specific named decorative collection.
Type
Hollowware / Serving Piece
Maker
Benedict Manufacturing Company (often marked Benedict), founded in East Syracuse, New York. Known for silver-plated hollowware, novelties, and metal goods. A prominent American manufacturer active through the mid-20th century.
Material
Silver Plated over a base metal (typically white metal, nickel silver, or brass alloy, indicated by the 'B' in the diamond hallmark).
Dimensions
Standard serving size proportions, length approximately 8 to 10 inches. Weight is typical of a heavy-gauge silver-plated serving utensil or small dish.
Description
An attractive silver-plated serving piece by the Benedict Manufacturing Co., featuring a flared form with a distinctive pierced openwork design at the top and a smooth, reflective bowl area. The reverse displays the clear maker's hallmark and model number 211, representing classic mid-century American silverplate utility ware.
Key Features
Clear manufacturer's diamond hallmark containing 'BMB', prominent 'BENEDICT' stamp, model number 211, and geometric pierced openwork detailing.
Material & Composition
Silver Plated over a base metal (typically white metal, nickel silver, or brass alloy, indicated by the 'B' in the diamond hallmark).
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish on the bowl surface with a pierced (openwork) decorative motif at the top/handle section, featuring stylized geometric or floral cutouts.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'BENEDICT' above a diamond-shaped trademark containing 'B M B' and 'MADE IN U.S.A.' around a central flower or crest emblem. The shape or pattern number '211' is stamped below.
Construction Details
Likely die-stamped and pierced from sheet metal, then formed and silver-plated. Standard machine-manufactured American silverplate technique of the period.
Functional Features
Pierced terminal end likely serves as a decorative handle or grip, or allows for liquid drainage when used as a serving scoop or crumb tray.
Handle & Grip Details
Integrated metal handle section forming part of the main body, featuring a pierced cutout design for ergonomic grip and visual appeal.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial-grade American silverplate craftsmanship, featuring clean die-cut piercing and uniform plating over a base metal alloy.
Authentication Indicators
Authentic manufacturer markings with standard American silverplate stamp conventions, matching known Benedict Manufacturing Co. hallmarks from the mid-20th century.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in the United States, specifically manufactured by Benedict in East Syracuse, New York.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century / Art Deco to Mid-Century transitional period (circa 1920s-1950s), based on the company's operational timeline and trademark style.
Age Estimate
Circa 1930s to 1950s, based on the trademark stamp format and 'MADE IN U.S.A.' designation.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the post-industrial rise of accessible silver-plated dining accessories in American middle-class households during the mid-20th century.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good condition with visible surface scratches, moderate tarnish (sulfide discoloration), and slight wear to the silver plating revealing the base metal in high-friction areas.
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges between $15 to $45 USD depending on overall condition, collector demand, and local antique market trends.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a mild liquid dish soap and warm water using a soft cloth. Polish sparingly with a quality silver cream like Wright's to avoid wearing through the thin silver plating.
Similar Pieces
Similar silver-plated serving dishes, crumb trays, and scoops by American makers such as Oneida, International Silver, and F.B. Rogers.
Interesting Facts
The Benedict Manufacturing Company was widely known for producing accessible, stylish silver-plated tableware and novelties in Upstate New York before closing its operations in the mid-20th century.