Gilt Sterling Silver Decorative Coaster or Nut Dish
Hollowware (Small Bowl/Nut Dish) · Unknown Manufacturer (Generic Production)
Pattern: Indeterminate Scroll and Dot Border Pattern
Type
Hollowware (Small Bowl/Nut Dish)
Maker
Unknown Manufacturer (Generic Production)
Material
Vermeil (Gold-plated Sterling Silver) or Gold-Toned Brass/Base Metal
Dimensions
Estimated 4-5 inches in diameter; light gauge metal
Description
A shallow, circular dish featuring a golden/gilt finish with a repetitive embossed scroll-and-dot border. The center is flat and shows signs of significant wear and scratching.
Key Features
Scalloped-edge appearance and traditional scrollwork border with a bright yellow gold-tone finish.
Material & Composition
Vermeil (Gold-plated Sterling Silver) or Gold-Toned Brass/Base Metal
Finish & Decoration
High-polish gilt surface with a die-struck scroll and stippled border pattern
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible in the image; typically found on the underside or rim edge
Construction Details
Die-struck or machine-stamped from a flat sheet
Functional Features
Raised rim for spill containment; shallow center for small items
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Rim-held design)
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-made quality with low-relief stamping and evidence of rapid industrial finishing.
Authentication Indicators
Solder-less die-struck construction; lack of visible hand-chasing suggests modern mass production.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely mass-produced (USA, Europe, or SE Asia)
Era & Period
Modern/Late 20th Century following Neoclassical revival motifs
Age Estimate
Late 20th Century, circa 1970-1990
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury goods through machine-manufacturing processes.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; significant surface scratching in the center well and pitting/corrosion spots visible near the center.
Value Estimate
Decorative value only ($15-$30) unless hallmark confirms solid silver content ($40-$60 melt value).
Care & Maintenance
Gently clean with warm soapy water; avoid abrasive silver polish which will remove the thin gold gilding.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. individual nut dishes (which would be heavier and hand-finished) or silverplate coasters by Gorham.
Interesting Facts
Items like these were common as corporate gifts or wedding favors in the mid-to-late 20th century.