International Silver Co. Silver Plated Flatware Piece
Flatware · International Silver Co. (IS), a major American silver manufacturer formed in 1898 in Meriden, Connecticut, combining several prominent silver companies such as Rogers & Brother and Holmes & Edwards. Known for producing both sterling and extensive silver-plated tableware lines.
Pattern: Unidentified traditional or classic fluted or ribbed handle pattern by International Silver Co.
Type
Flatware
Maker
International Silver Co. (IS), a major American silver manufacturer formed in 1898 in Meriden, Connecticut, combining several prominent silver companies such as Rogers & Brother and Holmes & Edwards. Known for producing both sterling and extensive silver-plated tableware lines.
Material
Silver Plated (EPNS or electroplated nickel silver base), featuring visible raised parallel lines or fluting along the handle stem.
Dimensions
Standard flatware dimensions (approx. 15-20 cm depending on exact piece type such as a fork or spoon); weight is consistent with standard commercial silver-plated flatware.
Description
A classic commercial silver-plated flatware piece featuring a distinctive fluted handle design with prominent parallel ridges. Stamped clearly with the International Silver Co. maker's mark, this piece reflects the durable and accessible tableware produced for American households during the mid-20th century.
Key Features
Clear manufacturer stamp reading "INTERNATIONAL S. CO." and vertically ribbed handle decoration.
Material & Composition
Silver Plated (EPNS or electroplated nickel silver base), featuring visible raised parallel lines or fluting along the handle stem.
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver-plated finish with vertical raised ribs or fluting running down the length of the handle shaft, presenting a classic mid-to-late 20th-century aesthetic.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Impressed maker's mark reading "INTERNATIONAL S. CO." clearly stamped into the recessed center of the handle stem.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured via standard mid-20th-century commercial flatware production methods, including die-stamping and subsequent silver electroplating.
Functional Features
Standard dining utility for flatware, featuring a fluted stem designed for a secure and comfortable grip.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid metal handle integrated with the stem, featuring three or more parallel raised ridges running vertically down the center.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial die-stamping and electroplating with uniform pattern execution and clear factory hallmark stamping.
Authentication Indicators
Authentic maker's stamp "INTERNATIONAL S. CO." struck into the handle stem in a clean, indented format consistent with mid-century production standards.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in the United States by the International Silver Co., continuing the rich manufacturing traditions of Meriden, Connecticut.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (likely 1940s-1960s), based on the company's stamp style and mass-production plating conventions.
Age Estimate
Circa 1940-1970, based on the specific sans-serif and enclosed letter stamping style used by International Silver.
Cultural Significance
Representative of post-WWII American dining culture, where mass-produced silver-plated flatware brought affordable elegance to middle-class households.
Condition Notes
Moderate surface tarnish (sulfide oxidation) and minor scratching typical of vintage used silver plate. The base plating appears generally intact with expected signs of age and handling. Condition is Very Good for a vintage utility piece.
Value Estimate
Modest collector or replacement market value, typically ranging from $5 to $15 depending on the exact form (fork, spoon, knife) and overall condition.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver polish or specialized silver dip suitable for plated items. Store in tarnish-resistant cloth or bags to prevent ongoing oxidation.
Similar Pieces
Various silver-plated flatware patterns produced by Oneida, Wallace, and other mid-century American manufacturers.
Interesting Facts
International Silver Co. was once the largest manufacturer of silverware in the world, producing popular patterns for everyday American dining as well as premium hotel and steamship lines.