Electroplated Silver or Chrome Industrial Flange Disc
Decorative Object / Functional Hardware · Unknown; likely an industrial manufacturer rather than a traditional silversmithing house like Tiffany or Gorham.
Pattern: Non-patterned industrial design; mass-produced utilitarian form.
Type
Decorative Object / Functional Hardware
Maker
Unknown; likely an industrial manufacturer rather than a traditional silversmithing house like Tiffany or Gorham.
Material
Likely silver-plated base metal (EPNS) or chrome-plated steel/brass. The surface shows bubbling and pitting characteristic of plating failure over a non-precious base metal.
Dimensions
Estimated 4 to 6 inches in diameter with a 1-inch central aperture; estimated weight 100-200 grams depending on base metal density.
Description
A circular flat metal disc featuring a high-polish reflective surface and a centered hole. The item lacks the traditional curvature of hollowware, suggesting a functional role in architecture or hardware rather than dining. The reflective surface shows significant 'measling' or bubbling, indicating chemical breakdown between the plating and the base metal.
Key Features
Planar geometry, central die-cut hole, reflective coating, and lack of ornamentation.
Material & Composition
Likely silver-plated base metal (EPNS) or chrome-plated steel/brass. The surface shows bubbling and pitting characteristic of plating failure over a non-precious base metal.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish; undecorated plain surface with no engraving or ornate embellishment.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible in the image. Utility pieces of this nature often lack traditional silver hallmarks unless they are sterling, which this does not appear to be.
Construction Details
Stamped or die-cut from a flat sheet of metal, subsequently electroplated. The edges appear industrial and sharp rather than rolled or hand-finished.
Functional Features
Central circular cutout suggests it is a flange, a decorative collar for a plumbing fixture, or a base for a trophy or lamp.
Handle & Grip Details
None; the item is a flat disc intended to lay flush against a surface or be mounted.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-made; uniform thickness and perfect circularity indicate industrial stamping rather than hand-raising or spinning.
Authentication Indicators
The 'bubbling' texture is a primary indicator that this is plated rather than solid silver; solid sterling silver oxidizes (tarnishes) but does not delaminate or bubble like this.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in a large-scale industrial facility in China, India, or the USA for the hardware or lighting trade.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century to Modern; the minimalist industrial form and plating technique suggest contemporary mass production.
Age Estimate
Circa 1980–present; based on the high-gloss plating and the specific type of pitting/corrosion visible.
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift from hand-wrought silver luxury to mass-produced, chrome-aesthetic home goods in the late 20th century.
Condition Notes
Fair. The surface exhibits significant pitting, oxidation spots, and bubbling under the plating. There are visible fingerprints and light surface scratches.
Value Estimate
$5.00 - $15.00 USD; primarily valued as a scrap metal or a functional hardware replacement part.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid abrasive cleaners which will strip the remaining plating. Use a soft microfiber cloth. This item is susceptible to 'pitting' in humid environments.
Similar Pieces
Chrome escutcheons, sterling silver wine coasters (usually have wood bases and rolled edges), or silver-plated trophy bases.
Interesting Facts
While it lacks the value of antique silver, such discs are often used in 'Upcycled' art or as spacers in modern lighting fixtures.