Mid-Century Modern Sterling Silver Bread and Butter Plate
Hollowware (Bread and Butter Plate / Small Underplate) · Likely American manufacturer such as Gorham, Reed & Barton, or International Silver Co. These firms dominated the production of mid-century minimalist sterling tableware in the United States.
Pattern: Plain or 'Modernist' pattern; often part of a basic hospitality or wedding registry collection. These unornamented designs were ubiquitous from the 1940s through the 1970s.
Type
Hollowware (Bread and Butter Plate / Small Underplate)
Maker
Likely American manufacturer such as Gorham, Reed & Barton, or International Silver Co. These firms dominated the production of mid-century minimalist sterling tableware in the United States.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The pinkish-gold hue visible in the image is a characteristic sign of 'firestain' or heavy oxidation on sterling silver, where the copper content in the alloy reacts with the environment.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of 6 inches (15 cm). Standard weight for this size silver plate typically ranges between 80 to 120 grams (roughly 2.5 to 3.8 troy ounces).
Description
A classic example of mid-20th-century silver utilitarianism, this sterling silver bread and butter plate features a clean, unadorned profile. While currently showing the patina of decades of use, its solid sterling construction offers a timeless elegance that complements both contemporary and traditional table settings.
Key Features
Minimalist circular form, rolled rim for strength, sterling silver construction, and high-utility size.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The pinkish-gold hue visible in the image is a characteristic sign of 'firestain' or heavy oxidation on sterling silver, where the copper content in the alloy reacts with the environment.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish originally; currently displaying heavy surface scratches and oxidation. The design is strictly minimalist with a simple rolled or 'threaded' rim and a flat well, representative of the Mid-Century Modern aesthetic.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in the photo as they are located on the underside. Expected marks include 'STERLING', a pattern number (e.g., 'X102'), and a maker's hallmark (e.g., Gorham's lion-anchor-G or Tiffany's 'T' mark).
Construction Details
Likely die-struck or spun from a silver sheet. The uniform thickness and perfectly circular form indicate industrial machine-manufacturing consistent with 20th-century mass production.
Functional Features
Flat central well for food service; slight raised rim to contain juices or crumbs. Its simple design makes it versatile as a coaster or a small catch-all tray.
Handle & Grip Details
None; handheld plate form.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced industrial quality. The value lies in the material purity and the brand name rather than unique hand-wrought artistry.
Authentication Indicators
The tarnish color is a primary indicator of genuine silver (copper-silver alloy). The price of $20.00 is a significant 'red flag' or 'bargain indicator'—if it is solid sterling, the scrap value alone likely exceeds $60-80, suggesting the seller may have misidentified it as silver plate or is pricing for a quick sale.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States (Providence, RI or Taunton, MA). These cities were the hubs of American silver manufacturing during the peak era for this item.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1945-1970). The lack of engraving, chasing, or floral motifs marks a departure from Victorian and Art Deco ornamentation toward pure functionalism.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1965. The wear patterns and style are consistent with mid-century household service sets.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war shift toward 'everyday luxury' where sterling silver was used frequently rather than just for high-holiday formal dining.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. The plate shows heavy 'spider-web' surface scratching from cutlery use. Significant tarnish/oxidation is present, resulting in a yellowish-purplish haze. No major dents or rim warping are immediately visible.
Value Estimate
$70.00 - $110.00 (Market value based on sterling weight), though priced at $20.00 in the image, making it an excellent 'find' for a collector.
Care & Maintenance
Requires a thorough cleaning with a high-quality silver cream (e.g., Wright's) and a soft cloth to remove oxidation. Professional buffing could remove most surface scratches, though it will remove a microscopic layer of silver.
Similar Pieces
Silver-plated versions by companies like Oneida or International. Silver-plated pieces will feel lighter, may show base metal (yellowish brass) at the wear points, and will be marked 'EPNS' or 'Silver on Copper' instead of 'Sterling'.
Interesting Facts
Bread and butter plates became a standard part of the American place setting in the early 20th century. During the post-WWII 'silver boom,' large sterling services were common wedding gifts for middle-to-upper-class families.