Sheridan Silver Co. Oval Electroplated Silver Plated Serving Tray
Hollowware (Serving Tray) · Sheridan Silver Co. of Taunton, Massachusetts. Founded in 1946, the company became known for producing high-quality silver-plated hollowware and was eventually acquired by Reed & Barton in the 1970s. They were a significant mid-twentieth century American producer of affordable luxury tableware.
Pattern: Traditional Oval with Gadroon Border
Type
Hollowware (Serving Tray)
Maker
Sheridan Silver Co. of Taunton, Massachusetts. Founded in 1946, the company became known for producing high-quality silver-plated hollowware and was eventually acquired by Reed & Barton in the 1970s. They were a significant mid-twentieth century American producer of affordable luxury tableware.
Material
Silver plate over base metal (likely copper or brass). The piece is marked 'SILVER PLATED' suggesting an electroplating process (EPNS/EPBM).
Dimensions
Estimated at 12 to 14 inches in length and 9 to 10 inches in width. Weight is likely between 500 to 800 grams depending on the thickness of the base metal.
Description
This Sheridan Silver Co. oval tray is an example of mid-20th-century American silver-plated hollowware. It features a bright mirror finish and a classic gadroon border that provides a touch of elegance to a functional piece. While not solid sterling, Sheridan pieces were valued for their durability and heavy weight, making them staples for formal dining and entertaining during the post-war era.
Key Features
Gadroon border, oval silhouette, Sheridan 'S' crown hallmark, and mirror-polished surface.
Material & Composition
Silver plate over base metal (likely copper or brass). The piece is marked 'SILVER PLATED' suggesting an electroplating process (EPNS/EPBM).
Finish & Decoration
Mirror-polished flat surface with a decorative gadroon (rope-like) border. The design is minimalist and utilitarian, typical of mid-century mass-market silver plate.
Hallmarks & Stamps
A central hallmark featuring a 'S' inside a crown-like crest or triangle, typically above the word 'SHERIDAN'. The mark visible appears to be the Sheridan Silver 'S' with a 'SILVER PLATED' stamp, common for post-WWII American production.
Construction Details
Machine-stamped from a flat sheet of base metal, then electroplated. The gadroon border is an applied or die-rolled decorative rim. This is a mass-produced industrial item rather than a hand-raised piece.
Functional Features
Raised rim to prevent spills; wide oval surface suitable for serving beverages, hors d'oeuvres, or use as a vanity tray. Flat underside for stability.
Handle & Grip Details
Simple rim grip; this specific model lacks side handles, relying on the outer edge for lifting.
Craftsmanship Details
While mass-produced, the piece shows good industrial quality. The plating is smooth and the die-work for the gadroon border is crisp. The weight suggests a sturdy base metal choice, typical of Sheridan's reputation for quality plating.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic Sheridan hallmark stamp; weight and feel consistent with plated copper; machine-finished edges rather than hand-filed.
Origin & Manufacturing
Taunton, Massachusetts, USA (the 'Silver City'), known for its high concentration of silver and silver plate manufacturers including Reed & Barton and Poole.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Post-War American (c. 1946-1970). The style is a revival of Georgian gadroon motifs designed for twentieth-century suburban homes.
Age Estimate
c. 1950-1970 based on the hallmark and the style of the electroplating.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'democratization of luxury' in the 1950s and 60s, where silver-plated items allowed middle-class families to emulate the formal dining styles of the upper class.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good condition. The surface shows significant micro-scratching and 'swirl' marks from improper cleaning or heavy usage. There are visible scuffs and light abrasions. No major 'bleeding' (base metal showing through) is visible in the photo, but the plating may be thin at the edges.
Value Estimate
Current market value is approximately $10 to $25. The value for silver-plated trays is currently low due to a surplus in the secondary market and low demand for high-maintenance tableware.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a non-abrasive silver cream like Wright's. Avoid dishwasher use as high heat and harsh detergents will strip the electroplating. Use a soft microfiber cloth to minimize further scratching of the mirror finish.
Similar Pieces
International Silver Co. 'Deep Silver' trays, Gorham 'Heritage' plated trays, or Oneida silversmiths plated hollowware. Sheridan is typically heavier than modern mass-market plate but lighter than 19th-century Sheffield plate.
Interesting Facts
Sheridan Silver Co. was part of the late-stage 'Silver City' boom in Taunton. Their acquisition by the industry giant Reed & Barton serves as a marker for the consolidation of the American silver industry in the late 20th century.