International Silver Company Electroplated Silverplate Flatware Piece
Flatware - Serving Piece / Cutlery Handle · International Silver Company (IS), merged in 1898 in Meriden, Connecticut, combining major American silver and silverplate manufacturers including Rogers Bros.
Pattern: Traditional Art Deco / Mid-Century Geometric Paneled Line (Exact pattern features raised border threading and notched shoulders).
Type
Flatware - Serving Piece / Cutlery Handle
Maker
International Silver Company (IS), merged in 1898 in Meriden, Connecticut, combining major American silver and silverplate manufacturers including Rogers Bros.
Material
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS / Silverplate). The base metal is a nickel-copper-zinc alloy coated with a layer of pure silver.
Dimensions
Estimated length: 7 to 9 inches (18–23 cm); estimated weight: 40–60 grams depending on full form.
Description
A classic American silverplated flatware piece manufactured by International Silver Co. The handle features clean geometric border reeding with distinct notched architectural shoulders characteristic of mid-century neoclassical and Art Deco hybrid silver design.
Key Features
Crisp dual-line raised borders framing the handle edges, shoulder stepping near the drop/bowl junction, clear backstamp.
Material & Composition
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS / Silverplate). The base metal is a nickel-copper-zinc alloy coated with a layer of pure silver.
Finish & Decoration
Satin-to-mirror polished finish with linear reeding/threading along the stem edges and sharp shoulder contouring near the handle joint.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped on the reverse stem with manufacturer maker's mark reading 'IS' or 'INTERNATIONAL SILVER CO.' alongside production or pattern control code numbers.
Construction Details
Die-struck solid base metal forging, subsequently electroplated in a silver bath and polished.
Functional Features
Tapered ergonomically structured handle stem with double-beveled rim border for enhanced grip and rigidity.
Handle & Grip Details
Flat profile with stepped spatulate end, linear reeding framing the stem, solid weighted feel in hand.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision industrial die-striking with clean detail retention along edges, standard commercial electroplating thickness.
Authentication Indicators
Clear, deep die-stamped lettering typical of mid-century International Silver factory production; genuine vintage surface wear patterns.
Origin & Manufacturing
Meriden / Birmingham, Connecticut, United States of America; mass-manufactured industrial silverplating standard.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (circa 1930s–1950s), reflecting Art Deco to Streamline Modern design sensibilities.
Age Estimate
Circa 1930–1960 based on stamp typography, shoulder styling, and silverplate composition.
Cultural Significance
Represents mid-century American suburban formal dining culture, where high-quality silverplate allowed middle-class households to enjoy elegant tabletop settings.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition showing minor surface scuffs, micro-scratching consistent with normal dining use, and light tarnish in recessed stamping. No major silver wear-through (bleed) visible in primary view.
Value Estimate
$5.00 – $15.00 USD for individual flatware pieces; higher value if part of a complete service set.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild dish soap and warm water. Polish gently with non-abrasive silver cream (e.g., Wright's or Hagerty's) using a soft microfiber cloth. Avoid harsh chemical dips.
Similar Pieces
1847 Rogers Bros. Charter Oak or First Love patterns; Holmes & Edwards silverplate lines; Community Plate geometric series.
Interesting Facts
International Silver Co. was formed by the amalgamation of over 20 independent silver companies in 1898 to dominate the North American silverplate market.