Sexton Pattern Silverplated Flatware by International Silver Company
Flatware (likely a spoon or fork handle based on the stem shape) · International Silver Company, a major American conglomerate founded in 1898 in Meriden, Connecticut. It merged many famous silversmiths, including Rogers and Wilcox, to become the largest manufacturer of silver and silverplate in the 20th century.
Pattern: Sexton Pattern; introduced circa 1934 and traditionally marketed under the '1847 Rogers Bros' or 'International Silver' lines. It is currently discontinued.
Type
Flatware (likely a spoon or fork handle based on the stem shape)
Maker
International Silver Company, a major American conglomerate founded in 1898 in Meriden, Connecticut. It merged many famous silversmiths, including Rogers and Wilcox, to become the largest manufacturer of silver and silverplate in the 20th century.
Material
Silverplate (Electroplated Nickel Silver - EPNS). The image shows the word 'SECTIONAL' which refers to 'sectional plating,' a technique where extra silver is deposited on high-wear points (the back of the bowl and the heel) to prevent 'bleeding' of the base metal.
Dimensions
Typical of 20th-century American flatware: teaspoons are approx 6 inches (15cm), forks 7.5 inches (19cm). Weight is standard for silverplate, heavier than sterling but lacking intrinsic silver value beyond its thin coating.
Description
This Sexton pattern piece represents the height of American industrial silverplate production. Designed to offer the elegance of sterling silver at a price point accessible to the average family, Sexton features graceful fluting and delicate foliate tips. The 'Sectional' stamp on the reverse is a hallmark of quality for plated ware, signaling the manufacturer's commitment to durability. It is a quintessential example of depression-era design that survived into the mid-century modern transition.
Key Features
The 'SECTIONAL' stamp is the most diagnostic indicator, combined with the specific vertical fluting and scroll-tip pattern unique to Sexton. Unlike older pieces, the stamping is clean and industrial.
Material & Composition
Silverplate (Electroplated Nickel Silver - EPNS). The image shows the word 'SECTIONAL' which refers to 'sectional plating,' a technique where extra silver is deposited on high-wear points (the back of the bowl and the heel) to prevent 'bleeding' of the base metal.
Finish & Decoration
Art Deco influenced floral and scroll scrollwork. The handle features long, vertical fluted channels leading to a decorative terminal with scalloped edges and foliate motifs. It has a high-polish mirror finish with oxidized recessed areas.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped vertically with 'SECTIONAL' in uppercase serif font. The primary brand mark (e.g., '1847 ROGERS BROS' or 'IS') would typically be located further down the stem or on the bowl/tine area, not fully visible here.
Construction Details
Die-struck and machine-manufactured. This piece was produced using high-pressure steel dies to stamp the pattern into a nickel-brass base metal alloy before being electroplated in a silver bath.
Functional Features
Standard flatware ergonomics. The 'Sectional' plating is a specific functional feature intended to increase the lifespan of the piece during frequent daily use.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid core metal handle with integrated decorative terminal. The tapered design is typical of mid-century American dining sets, providing a comfortable weight and balance.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial craftsmanship. While machine-made, the dies used were of exceptional detail, and the electroplating process by International Silver was considered the industry gold standard for 'triple-plate' or 'sectional' durability.
Authentication Indicators
Pattern matching with International Silver archives. The 'SECTIONAL' mark is consistent with authentic International Silver production from the 1930s-50s. The crispness of the die-strike suggests original manufacturing rather than a modern reproduction.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States, likely Meriden, Connecticut or one of International Silver's regional factories. Meriden was known as the 'Silver City' due to the dominance of this company.
Era & Period
Art Deco to Mid-Century Transition (circa 1930s-1940s). The combination of vertical linear elements (typical of the 30s) with traditional scrolling (revival styles) marks this as a transitional period piece.
Age Estimate
Circa 1934-1950. The 'Sexton' pattern was prominent in the mid-1930s and remained a staple for bridal registries and middle-class households through the post-war era.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of 'fine dining' in 20th-century America. Plated sets like these were common wedding gifts and symbolized the establishment of a respectable household.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. The plating appears intact with no visible 'bleeding' (brassy tones) showing through the silver. Light surface scratches (patina) consistent with age and occasional use are present. No signs of 'silver rot' or heavy pitting.
Value Estimate
Individual pieces generally retail for $5-$12 USD. Complete sets of 50+ pieces typically sell for $75-$150 USD depending on the accompanying chest and condition. Value is primarily functional rather than as a precious metal investment.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soap and water. Use a non-abrasive silver cream (like Wright's) only when tarnished. Avoid 'silver dips' as they can strip the thin silver layer and 'Sectional' reinforcement. Store in a tarnish-resistant chest or cloth.
Similar Pieces
Gorham 'Lady Caroline' (Sterling), International 'First Love' (Plate), or Oneida 'Coronation' (Plate). The Sexton pattern is often confused with other fluted designs like 'Heritage' but is distinguished by the specific leaf arrangement at the base of the handle.
Interesting Facts
The Sexton pattern was part of a marketing push during the Great Depression to make dining 'refined' for families who could no longer afford solid sterling services. International Silver was so successful they eventually produced titanium and stainless steel during WWII for the military.