Mid-19th Century Repoussé Coin Silver Youth Cup by Bigelow, Bros. & Kennard
Hollowware (Youth Cup/Mug) · Bigelow, Bros. & Kennard of Boston, Massachusetts. Originally founded as John Bigelow in 1830, the firm evolved into Bigelow, Bros. & Kennard in 1845. They were prestigious Boston retailers and silversmiths, competing directly with firms like Tiffany and Shreve, Crump & Low.
Pattern: Floral Repoussé with Cartouche (Custom/Artisan Design)
Type
Hollowware (Youth Cup/Mug)
Maker
Bigelow, Bros. & Kennard of Boston, Massachusetts. Originally founded as John Bigelow in 1830, the firm evolved into Bigelow, Bros. & Kennard in 1845. They were prestigious Boston retailers and silversmiths, competing directly with firms like Tiffany and Shreve, Crump & Low.
Material
American Coin Silver. The base is explicitly marked "Pure Silver Coin", which typically refers to an alloy of 90% purity (.900 fine), recycled from silver coinage prior to the U.S. adoption of the Sterling (.925) standard.
Dimensions
Estimated height: 3.5 to 4 inches; Diameter at rim: 2.75 to 3 inches. Estimated weight: 120-160 grams (4-5 troy ounces).
Description
A fine example of mid-Victorian American silver, this youth cup exemplifies the craftsmanship of Boston's elite silversmiths. The body is densely decorated with chasing that depicts lush foliage and blossoms, framing a central medallion meant for an engraved name or date. The substantial feel and 'Coin' designation recall a specific era of American mercantilism where silver currency was literally transformed into heirloom art.
Key Features
Explicit 'Pure Silver Coin' mark, prestigious Boston retailer provenance, high-relief floral repoussé, and a distinctive faceted scroll handle.
Material & Composition
American Coin Silver. The base is explicitly marked "Pure Silver Coin", which typically refers to an alloy of 90% purity (.900 fine), recycled from silver coinage prior to the U.S. adoption of the Sterling (.925) standard.
Finish & Decoration
High-relief repoussé and chased decoration featuring scrolling acanthus leaves, floral sprays, and a central circular cartouche. The style is Rococo Revival, popular in the mid-Victorian era. The finish is currently oxidized with a natural aged patina; the cartouche appears to be blank or lightly worn.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Incuse marks on the base: "BIGELOW, BROS. & KENNARD" (retailer/maker mark), "BOSTON" (locational mark), and "Pure Silver Coin" (purity mark). The stamps are clean and typical of mid-19th century American silver marking practices.
Construction Details
Hand-raised and seamed cylindrical body with a flared rim and stepped foot. The repoussé decoration was achieved by hammering from the inside out, followed by exterior chasing for detail. The handle is cast and hand-soldered to the body.
Functional Features
Single-handled drinking vessel designed for a child or youth. Features a reinforced rim and a stable, weighted-look foot for durability.
Handle & Grip Details
Cast silver C-scroll handle with a thumb rest and an angular, faceted profile. It is securely soldered to the body at two points. The handle shows heavier oxidation, typical of handling.
Craftsmanship Details
Superior hand-work evidenced by the depth of the floral chasing and the seamless integration of the foot. The crispness of the 'Boston' stamp indicates it was struck with high-quality steel dies.
Authentication Indicators
Markings are consistent with known Bigelow, Bros. & Kennard stamps. The wear patterns at the base and handle joints are appropriate for an item over 150 years old. The 'Pure Silver Coin' stamp is authentic to the 1850s period.
Origin & Manufacturing
Boston, Massachusetts, USA. Boston was a primary hub for high-quality American silver production, maintaining traditions of heavy-gauge construction and refined engraving.
Era & Period
Rococo Revival / Mid-Victorian (circa 1845-1865). The botanical motifs and heavy repoussé work are hallmark indicators of this period's aesthetic.
Age Estimate
Circa 1845-1860. The specific firm name "Bigelow, Bros. & Kennard" and the use of the "Pure Silver Coin" mark place this firmly in the mid-19th century before Sterling became the industry standard in the late 1860s.
Cultural Significance
Youth cups were traditional gifts for christenings or birthdays among the 19th-century upper class, serving as both a functional object and a store of familial wealth.
Condition Notes
Very Good/Antique condition. Significant tarnish/oxidation throughout, which highlights the detail but may require professional light cleaning. Minor surface scratches and tiny 'pree' dings consistent with age and use by a child. No visible evidence of major repairs or handle re-attachment.
Value Estimate
$250 - $450 USD. Value is driven by the Boston maker, the weight of the coin silver, and the complexity of the repoussé work.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild non-abrasive silver cream (e.g., Wright's). Avoid dipping solutions which can strip the desirable oxidation from the deep recesses of the repoussé. Store in a tarnish-resistant cloth bag.
Similar Pieces
Kirk Stieff Repoussé (usually Sterling and later), Gorham Coin Silver cups (often with different handle styles), and Peter L. Krider (Philadelphia) repoussé hollowware.
Interesting Facts
Bigelow, Bros. & Kennard were so well-regarded in Boston that they were often chosen to provide silver for prominent New England families. The term 'Pure Silver Coin' was a marketing phrase used to reassure buyers of quality during a time when silver standards were not yet federally regulated.