Vintage Silver-Plated Souvenir Map Tray of England with London Enamel Crest
Hollowware (Small Souvenir Tray/Pin Dish) · Unknown mass-market souvenir manufacturer; likely a British-based firm serving the mid-20th-century tourism industry. These pieces were often sold in airport gift shops or London department stores like Harrods or Selfridges.
Pattern: Commemorative Geographical Souvenir Series; typical of post-WWII travel boom merchandise.
Type
Hollowware (Small Souvenir Tray/Pin Dish)
Maker
Unknown mass-market souvenir manufacturer; likely a British-based firm serving the mid-20th-century tourism industry. These pieces were often sold in airport gift shops or London department stores like Harrods or Selfridges.
Material
Silver plate over base metal (likely brass or nickel silver). The central crest features baked enamel (cloisonné style) over a metal substrate.
Dimensions
Estimated 12-15 cm (5-6 inches) in length; weight approximately 100-150 grams. This is a small 'trinket' or 'pip' tray size.
Description
A charming example of mid-century British tourism silver, this small tray features a detailed map of England and Wales set against a textured background. The upper left corner is adorned with the vibrant red and white enamel coat of arms of the City of London, bearing the motto 'Domine Dirige Nos'. The tray is finished with an elegant scalloped border, making it a quintessentially British keepsake for collectors of travel memorabilia.
Key Features
Central enamel London crest; comprehensive city-name etching; decorative scalloped edge; engine-turned textured surface to hide scratches.
Material & Composition
Silver plate over base metal (likely brass or nickel silver). The central crest features baked enamel (cloisonné style) over a metal substrate.
Finish & Decoration
Bright mirror polish on the rim with a machine-engraved/etched 'engine-turned' texture on the flat bed. Features an etched map of England and Wales with major cities, a 'Domine Dirige Nos' London coat of arms enamel crest, and a scalloped 'gadroon' style border.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible hallmarks in image; likely stamped on the reverse with 'EPNS' (Electroplated Nickel Silver) or 'Made in England'. It lacks 925 sterling hallmarks.
Construction Details
Machine-stamped from a flat sheet of base metal,随后electroplated. The scalloped edge is die-formed, and the map details are applied via chemical etching or mechanical engraving.
Functional Features
Raised scalloped rim to prevent items from sliding off; primarily decorative but functional as a ring dish, coin tray, or pin glass.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - This is a handle-less tray design meant to be rested on a tabletop.
Craftsmanship Details
Commercial grade production. The engine-turning provides a professional finish, and the enamel application shows good color separation, though it is mass-produced rather than hand-wrought.
Authentication Indicators
The 'ENGLAND' banner and enamel quality are consistent with mid-market souvenir production. The lack of standard sterling hallmarks (Lion Passant) confirms this is silver-plated rather than solid silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Origin: England (as indicated by the 'ENGLAND' banner). Likely manufactured in Birmingham, the historic center for British silver-plating and small-metal goods.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (approx. 1950s-1970s). The design reflects the 'Festival of Britain' era souvenir style and the height of the British tourist trade.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960. The font styles and the specific selection of cities on the map are consistent with mid-century cartographic souvenirs.
Cultural Significance
Represents the rise of affordable international travel in the 20th century, where silver-plated trinkets allowed middle-class tourists to bring home a piece of 'British prestige'.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The enamel appears intact. There is minor surface tarnish and light scratching consistent with age. No significant plate loss (rub-through to base metal) is visible in the photo.
Value Estimate
$15 - $35 USD. Value is driven by 'souvenir' interest and the condition of the enamel rather than silver content.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream (e.g., Wright's) and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners which can strip the thin silver plating to reveal the yellow brass beneath. Do not soak, as moisture can damage the enamel adhesive.
Similar Pieces
Similar trays were made by companies like Cavalier or Ianthe, though often with floral engravings instead of maps. Collectors may also find solid sterling versions, but they would bear distinct assay office hallmarks.
Interesting Facts
The motto 'Domine Dirige Nos' means 'Lord, guide us.' While the tray says 'England', it conspicuously excludes Scotland and Northern Ireland from the map, focusing on the most common tourist routes of the mid-century.