Gorham Manufacturing Co. Sterling Silver Hollowware Piece, Model 1651
Hollowware · Gorham Manufacturing Co., founded in Providence, Rhode Island, in 1831 by Jabez Gorham. Gorham is one of the most prominent, historic, and largest American silver manufacturers, renowned for exceptional quality, expansive output, and setting the standard for American sterling silver production.
Pattern: Gorham Model Number 1651, utilitarian or standard hollowware form, produced during the late 19th or early 20th century.
Type
Hollowware
Maker
Gorham Manufacturing Co., founded in Providence, Rhode Island, in 1831 by Jabez Gorham. Gorham is one of the most prominent, historic, and largest American silver manufacturers, renowned for exceptional quality, expansive output, and setting the standard for American sterling silver production.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 fine silver), standard American composition established by Gorham and later adopted nationally.
Dimensions
Estimated size indicated by the '2 1/2' stamp, likely referencing capacity, height, or a sizing metric specific to Gorham's factory catalog (such as a small bowl, mug, or creamer). Exact dimensions would require physical measurement.
Description
An authentic piece of American Victorian silver hollowware by the esteemed Gorham Manufacturing Co. The base clearly displays the iconic anchor hallmark, the arched Gorham maker's identity, the model number 1651, and a dimensional or capacity fraction 2 1/2. The heavily polished surface shows the character of age with fine surface hairlines and scratches from historical use, bearing testimony to its genuine antique nature.
Key Features
Clear Gorham anchor trademark, legible model number 1651, size marker 2 1/2, and classic Gorham maker's arch stamp.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 fine silver), standard American composition established by Gorham and later adopted nationally.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish reflective mirror finish, typical of fine American hollowware.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Features the classic Gorham trademark stamp consisting of an anchor flanked by a lion and the letter 'G', arched maker's name 'GORHAM & CO.', along with the pattern or shape number '1651' and size designation '2 1/2'. Note that the standard 'Sterling' word mark is often adjacent or omitted on certain specialized pieces from specific eras, though the anchor trademark unequivocally designates Gorham sterling.
Construction Details
Machine-assisted and hand-finished hollowware production, typical of Gorham's industrialized yet highly skilled workshop methods in Providence.
Functional Features
Designed for domestic service, dining, or display use, reflecting high Victorian or Edwardian household utility.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid silver or integrated hollow-formed construction appropriate to the specific hollowware category.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial silversmithing with precise stamping, clean lines, and durable construction designed to withstand generations of domestic use.
Authentication Indicators
The anchor, lion, and 'G' symbol within the shield shape alongside the arched 'GORHAM & CO.' stamp are hallmarks of the authentic Gorham company. The punch style for the numbers '1651' and '2 1/2' matches period factory stamping techniques.
Origin & Manufacturing
Providence, Rhode Island, United States, crafted in the main Gorham manufacturing facilities.
Era & Period
Victorian / Edwardian Era, late 19th to early 20th century, based on the classic arched Gorham logo style.
Age Estimate
Circa 1870-1910, indicated by the specific configuration of the Gorham anchor hallmark and sans-serif/serif lettering styles.
Cultural Significance
Represents the height of American industrial silversmithing and the affluent domestic material culture of the Gilded Age.
Condition Notes
Very Good antique condition. The surface exhibits widespread fine scratches and minor scuffs consistent with age, polishing, and historical handling. No major dents, structural splits, or repairs are evident. The hallmarks remain deep and crisp.
Value Estimate
Market value ranges from $100 to $400 depending on the exact form of the hollowware piece (e.g., small bowl, creamer, or cup) and current silver melt value combined with collector demand.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently using a professional silver polish like Wright's Silver Cream and a soft microfiber cloth. Store in an anti-tarnish cloth or bag away from humidity and rubber products.
Similar Pieces
Hollowware pieces by contemporary American makers such as Tiffany & Co., Reed & Barton, and Towle Silversmiths from the same era.
Interesting Facts
Gorham supplied silver to numerous U.S. Presidents, including the White House commissions for Ulysses S. Grant, and became the largest silver manufacturer in the world during the late 19th century under the leadership of John Gorham.