International Silver Co. Silverplated Flatware Piece
Flatware (Serving Piece or Spoon) · International Silver Co. (IS), a major American conglomerate formed in 1898 in Meriden, Connecticut, combining several silver manufacturers to become one of the largest silver producers in the world.
Pattern: Proprietary or standard utility flatware pattern from International Silver Company, likely produced during the mid-20th century.
Type
Flatware (Serving Piece or Spoon)
Maker
International Silver Co. (IS), a major American conglomerate formed in 1898 in Meriden, Connecticut, combining several silver manufacturers to become one of the largest silver producers in the world.
Material
Silver Plated (EPNS - Electroplated Nickel Silver) over a base metal alloy typically composed of copper, nickel, and zinc.
Dimensions
Standard flatware dimensions for an individual or serving utensil, weight typical of silverplated base metal items.
Description
This is a silverplated flatware piece manufactured by the International Silver Company. The image clearly displays the maker's hallmark stamp alongside a production or quality mark on the reverse of the handle. As a piece of silver plate, it represents the widespread democratization of elegant table settings during the mid-20th century.
Key Features
Clear International Silver trademark stamp, durable base metal construction with electroplated silver finish, classic mid-century flatware profile.
Material & Composition
Silver Plated (EPNS - Electroplated Nickel Silver) over a base metal alloy typically composed of copper, nickel, and zinc.
Finish & Decoration
Standard commercial polish with raised border or ridge detailing typical of mid-century mass-produced flatware.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Visible maker's mark showing the International Silver Co. logo (often a stylized 'IS' inside a circle or shield) along with plating or quality indicators.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured, die-struck from a base metal sheet and subsequently electroplated with a thin layer of silver.
Functional Features
Standard utility flatware design intended for daily dining or table service.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid base metal handle with integrated decorative ridges, forming part of the main stamping.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial mass-produced quality featuring clean die-struck shaping and industrial electroplating rather than hand-wrought silversmithing.
Authentication Indicators
Authentic manufacturer's punch stamp of the International Silver Co. trademark, showing appropriate industrial die-striking and wear patterns.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in the United States by the International Silver Company, primarily out of Meriden, Connecticut.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1945-1970) or late Art Deco transitional era, based on maker mark style.
Age Estimate
Circa 1930s-1960s based on the typography and style of the International Silver hallmark.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the post-industrial rise of accessible silverplated tableware in American middle-class households during the 20th century.
Condition Notes
Moderate surface wear with visible tarnish and some loss of silver plating revealing the yellowish base metal underneath, consistent with vintage table use and age. Condition is fair to good.
Value Estimate
Modest collector or scrap value, typically ranging from $5 to $15 depending on the specific pattern and overall condition.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with gentle silver cream specifically formulated for plated items to avoid wearing through the thin silver layer. Store in anti-tarnish cloths.
Similar Pieces
Silverplated flatware by competitors such as Oneida, Wallace, and Reed & Barton from the same era.
Interesting Facts
International Silver Company was once the largest producer of silverware in the world, dominating the American market through famous brands like 1847 Rogers Bros. and Holmes & Edwards.