Wm. Rogers & Son Victorian Style Silver Plate Oval Platter
Hollowware (Serving Platter) · Wm. Rogers & Son, a trademark used by the International Silver Company (merged 1898). The Rogers name is iconic in American silverplate history.
Pattern: Unidentified floral/scroll etched pattern; categorized as 'S.P. Copper' (Silver Plate over Copper) line.
Type
Hollowware (Serving Platter)
Maker
Wm. Rogers & Son, a trademark used by the International Silver Company (merged 1898). The Rogers name is iconic in American silverplate history.
Material
Silver Plated on Copper (Electroplated Copper). The 'S.P. COPPER' stamp confirms a copper base, which is visible through the significant plating loss.
Dimensions
Estimated 10-12 inches in length; approximately 400-600 grams. A standard small meat or vegetable platter size.
Description
An oval silver-plated serving platter featuring an ornate scrolled floral etched center. Originally designed for formal dining, this piece shows significant historical wear, revealing the warm copper base metal beneath the silver finish.
Key Features
Etched central medallion, 'S.P. Copper' mark, Victorian-style scrollwork, and a recessed well for serving.
Material & Composition
Silver Plated on Copper (Electroplated Copper). The 'S.P. COPPER' stamp confirms a copper base, which is visible through the significant plating loss.
Finish & Decoration
Etched/chased floral and scroll motifs in a well area; polished rim with a simple raised bead or thread edge. Victorian Revival style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'Wm. A. Rogers' / 'S.P. COPPER' / '1438 N'. The 'N' may indicate a specific manufacturing plant or date code used by International Silver.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed and stamped from a copper sheet, followed by electroplating and mechanical engraving/etching.
Functional Features
Ovoid flat serving surface with a raised lip to contain juices; no handles, intended for table service.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Handleless oval form).
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality; machine-etched decoration and stamped form. Lacks the crispness of hand-chased silver but provides high visual impact for the era of production.
Authentication Indicators
The 'Wm. A. Rogers' mark is consistent with authentic mass-produced silverplate of the mid-20th century. The heavy copper exposure is typical for high-use electroplated items.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States, likely Meriden, Connecticut; produced in the factories of the International Silver Company.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century Victorian Revival (c. 1930-1950); incorporates design elements popular in the late 19th century.
Age Estimate
Circa 1940s based on the 'S.P. Copper' stamping and the font of the maker's mark.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of 'fine' dining in early-to-mid 20th century America, where silverplate allowed middle-class families to mimic aristocratic table settings.
Condition Notes
Poor to Fair condition. Significant 'bleeding' of copper where silver plating has worn away. Extensive surface scratching, pitting, and oxidation/tarnish present.
Value Estimate
$5 - $15 USD. The value is decorative or utilitarian only due to the extensive plating loss and lack of precious metal content.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle cleaning only. Do not use abrasive polishes as the remaining silver plating is extremely thin. Use a soft cloth and mild soap. Avoid silver 'dips'.
Similar Pieces
Sheridan Silver Co. or Oneida silverplate platters; distinguished by different pattern etchings or 'E.P.N.S.' (Nickel Silver) vs 'S.P. Copper' bases.
Interesting Facts
The 'Rogers' name was so valuable in the 19th century that dozens of different 'Rogers' companies formed, leading to decades of legal battles over naming rights.