Reed & Barton Sterling Silver Handled Knife with MirrorSteel Blade
Flatware - Knife · Reed & Barton, founded in 1824 in Taunton, Massachusetts, is one of America's oldest and most prestigious silversmithing companies. Known for exceptional craftsmanship, historic patterns, and supplying silver to the White House, they have a stellar reputation in American silver manufacturing.
Pattern: Traditional ornate floral scroll pattern with neoclassical relief elements, produced during the mid-20th century.
Type
Flatware - Knife
Maker
Reed & Barton, founded in 1824 in Taunton, Massachusetts, is one of America's oldest and most prestigious silversmithing companies. Known for exceptional craftsmanship, historic patterns, and supplying silver to the White House, they have a stellar reputation in American silver manufacturing.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) handle shell with a filled interior for balance, paired with a stainless steel (MirrorSteel) blade.
Dimensions
Standard dinner or luncheon knife size, approximately 22 cm in length, with weight distributed via a weighted hollow-handle construction typical of silver flatware knives.
Description
An elegant American silver-handled knife by the renowned Reed & Barton company. The piece features a richly decorated hollow sterling silver handle adorned with classical floral and scroll relief work. The bright, polished stainless steel blade bears the distinct 'REED & BARTON MIRRORSTEEL' stamp, ensuring reliable everyday cutting performance paired with classic antique elegance.
Key Features
Ornate embossed floral handle, weighted hollow-handle design, and clearly stamped MirrorSteel stainless blade from Reed & Barton.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) handle shell with a filled interior for balance, paired with a stainless steel (MirrorSteel) blade.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish blade combined with an oxidized, relief-chased floral and scroll motif on the sterling silver handle.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Blade is stamped with 'REED & BARTON MIRRORSTEEL' indicating the stainless steel blade maker and material. Handle features typical American maker markings for silver composition.
Construction Details
Hollow-handle silver construction featuring a filled interior for weight and balance, securely joined to a modern stainless steel blade via a cemented bolster.
Functional Features
Designed for dining use as a table knife. The stainless steel blade provides durability and corrosion resistance, while the hollow sterling handle offers ergonomic balance.
Handle & Grip Details
Hollow-handle sterling silver with ornate repoussé and chased floral motifs, offering an ergonomic grip and traditional aesthetic.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial and hand-finished craftsmanship typical of mid-century Reed & Barton production, featuring crisp relief work and secure blade-to-handle assembly.
Authentication Indicators
Clear 'REED & BARTON MIRRORSTEEL' stamp on the blade and characteristic American hollow-handle construction and period-appropriate floral motifs.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in Taunton, Massachusetts, USA, by Reed & Barton, utilizing classic American silver manufacturing and assembly techniques.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century, c. 1940-1960, reflecting revival styles popular in American dining silver.
Age Estimate
Circa 1940-1965 based on the style of the stainless steel blade stamp and manufacturing technique.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-WWII American dining tradition where sterling silver flatware was a staple of formal domestic life and upward social mobility.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The handle shows moderate tarnish and minor surface scratches consistent with careful use and age. The stainless steel blade maintains a bright mirror polish with light surface wear.
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges between $25 to $60 USD for an individual piece, depending on the specific pattern and overall condition.
Care & Maintenance
Wash by hand in warm soapy water and dry immediately. Avoid the dishwasher to protect the filled handle cement and sterling silver finish. Polish the handle periodically with a quality silver cream like Wright's.
Similar Pieces
Comparable to silver-handled knives by Gorham, Wallace, and International Silver featuring stainless steel blades and ornate traditional handles.
Interesting Facts
Reed & Barton played a significant role in American history by producing not only fine flatware but also essential munitions and military items during wartime while maintaining their legendary silversmithing heritage.