Marlboro Plate E.P. Copper 271 Silver-Plated Dish/Bowl
Hollowware · Morton-Parker Ltd. (formerly under various Canadian corporate umbrellas including International Silver Co. associations). Marlborough/Marlboro is a notable Canadian trade name for mid-century plated wares.
Pattern: Marlboro Plate (Collection); Pattern 271 (Plain Rim/Modernist Style)
Type
Hollowware
Maker
Morton-Parker Ltd. (formerly under various Canadian corporate umbrellas including International Silver Co. associations). Marlborough/Marlboro is a notable Canadian trade name for mid-century plated wares.
Material
Silver Plate (E.P. Copper); Electroplated Silver over a base of 100% Copper. This is a common high-quality base for Canadian plating.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter 15-20cm; weight is relatively heavy for its size due to the copper core (approx. 300-500g). Standard side-dish or candy-dish size.
Description
A classic piece of mid-century Canadian hollowware, this Marlboro Plate dish exemplifies the robust utility of E.P. Copper. Characterized by a deep, warm luster that develops as the silver plating ages over its copper base, this piece is an excellent example of domestic silver-plate from the height of North American manufacturing.
Key Features
E.P. Copper stamp (signifying industrial quality), 'Canada' origin mark, and the distinctive model number '271' which identifies the specific mold used.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (E.P. Copper); Electroplated Silver over a base of 100% Copper. This is a common high-quality base for Canadian plating.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with a subtle satin-brushed interior from use; largely unornamented in the 'Mid-Century Modern' or 'Late Art Deco' transition style. Minimalist aesthetic with a rolled rim.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped: 'Marlboro / PLATE / E.P. COPPER / CANADA / 271'. Includes the model number 271. Not a true hallmark system as it is plated, but a standard manufacturer's identifying mark.
Construction Details
Machine-spun from a sheet of copper; then electroplated in a silver bath. Features a rolled or 'beaded' edge for structural rigidity and to hide the sharp metal edge.
Functional Features
Single-body construction; intended as a serving vessel or decorative tabletop piece. The wide rim allows for easy transport.
Handle & Grip Details
No specific handles; grip is facilitated by the flared rim design.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality; well-centered stamping and consistent rim rolling. It illustrates the transition from hand-finishing to high-efficiency industrial pressing.
Authentication Indicators
The stamp is clear and correctly aligned for the period; the wear pattern shows authentic surface usage rather than artificial aging.
Origin & Manufacturing
Canada; manufactured in a factory likely located in Ontario (Trenton or Belleville region), where much of Canada's silver-plate industry was centralized.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (approx. 1950-1970). Post-war Canadian manufacturing era characterized by durable, functional electroplated household items.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1965 based on the sans-serif block typography of the stamp and the 'E.P. Copper' designation popularity.
Cultural Significance
Represents the industrial expansion of Canadian craft post-WWII, moving away from ornate British imports toward locally manufactured, modern, and durable household goods for the growing middle class.
Condition Notes
Good condition with visible surface scratches ('scuffing') consistent with regular cleaning and age. No significant 'bleeding' (copper showing through) is visible in the provided image, though light tarnish is present.
Value Estimate
$15 - $35 USD. Value is largely decorative; silver-plated copper has minimal scrap value compared to sterling silver.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream (e.g., Wright's) and a soft cloth. Do not use abrasive pads which will strip the silver to the copper core. Store in a dry place to prevent 'pitting'.
Similar Pieces
Birks Regency Plate (higher market value), International Silver Co. 'Victorian Rose' (more ornate), or Rogers Bros plated copper series.
Interesting Facts
Marlboro Plate was widely used in Canadian hotels and railways due to its durability. Many families received these as wedding gifts in the mid-1900s, making them a staple of Canadian antique collecting.