Wm. Rogers Silver Plate Hollowware Base
Hollowware (likely a goblet, trophy, or small vase bottom) · Wm. Rogers (William Rogers), part of International Silver Company; specifically the Canadian division located in Hamilton, Ontario. The eagle and star mark signifies the brand used after the 1898 merger.
Pattern: Pattern No. 121 (Plain or utilitarian design)
Type
Hollowware (likely a goblet, trophy, or small vase bottom)
Maker
Wm. Rogers (William Rogers), part of International Silver Company; specifically the Canadian division located in Hamilton, Ontario. The eagle and star mark signifies the brand used after the 1898 merger.
Material
Silver Plated; 'E.P. W.M.' indicates Electroplated White Metal (likely a lead-based pewter or Britannia metal base with a thin silver coating).
Dimensions
Estimated base diameter 3 to 4 inches; standard weight for white-metal based hollowware.
Description
The underside of a Canadian-made silver-plated vessel. It features the iconic William Rogers eagle and star branding, indicating a mid-tier consumer product intended for domestic use or moderate-quality hospitality settings.
Key Features
Eagle/Star logo, 'E.P. W.M.' material designation, and the Hamilton geographic origin mark.
Material & Composition
Silver Plated; 'E.P. W.M.' indicates Electroplated White Metal (likely a lead-based pewter or Britannia metal base with a thin silver coating).
Finish & Decoration
Polished finish with significant surface scratching; no visible chasing or engraving on this base section; utilitarian 20th-century aesthetic.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Eagle and Star symbols flanking 'WM. ROGERS'; 'HAMILTON, CAN.' (Hamilton, Ontario); 'E.P. W.M.' (Electroplated White Metal); Model number '121'.
Construction Details
Machine-made; the base is likely spun or die-struck with the maker's marks stamped post-production.
Functional Features
Circular weighted or stable base intended for a self-standing vessel.
Handle & Grip Details
None visible on the base; presumably part of a stem or handle-less vessel body.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced industrial quality; functional but lacking the individual hand-finishing found in sterling or older Sheffield plate.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of 'E.P. W.M.' confirms this is NOT sterling silver but a silver-plate item. The stamp depth and font are consistent with authentic mid-century industrial striking.
Origin & Manufacturing
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; manufactured at the International Silver Co. of Canada Ltd. plant.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (Post-WWII Industrial Era)
Age Estimate
Circa 1940-1960. The specific 'Hamilton, Can' stamp with the 121 model number is typical of mid-century Canadian silver plate production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of 'silver' in the early-to-mid 20th century, providing middle-class households with affordable, silver-look service pieces.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Shows heavy surface abrasion, circular scratching consistent with abrasive cleaning, and minor pitting or moisture spots.
Value Estimate
$5 - $15 USD. Silver-plated white metal has little intrinsic scrap value and high production volume.
Care & Maintenance
Clean only with mild silver polish and a soft cloth; avoid 'silver dips' or abrasive pads which will quickly strip the thin silver layer off the 'white metal' base.
Similar Pieces
International Silver Co. American-made pieces; Birks Regency Plate (a higher-end Canadian competitor); silver-plated hotel ware.
Interesting Facts
The Rogers family had numerous members using the 'Wm. Rogers' name, leading to legal battles until consolidation under International Silver. This Canadian branch was a major employer in Hamilton's industrial heyday.