Mid-Century Modern Sterling Silver Coaster or Bread and Butter Plate
Hollowware / Tableware (Coaster, Butter Plate, or Small Dish) · Unknown manufacturer; possibly an American silversmith like Gorham, Wallace, or International Silver based on the minimalist profile.
Pattern: Minimalist Plain Pattern; typical of late mid-century 'Plain' or 'Classic' lines introduced between 1940 and 1960.
Type
Hollowware / Tableware (Coaster, Butter Plate, or Small Dish)
Maker
Unknown manufacturer; possibly an American silversmith like Gorham, Wallace, or International Silver based on the minimalist profile.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925 purity) based on surface luster and color, though silver plate over white metal is possible without visible hallmarks.
Dimensions
Estimated 4-6 inches in diameter; approximately 60-100 grams if solid sterling; standard size for a wine coaster or individual side plate.
Description
An elegant, understated piece of silver tableware that embodies the mid-century modern aesthetic. Its beauty lies in its geometric simplicity, featuring a broad plane that highlights the natural brilliance of the metal. This piece transitioned easily from formal dinner service to casual cocktail hour use.
Key Features
Wide flat rim (marly); deep central well; circular profile; complete absence of decorative motifs or applied edge beads.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925 purity) based on surface luster and color, though silver plate over white metal is possible without visible hallmarks.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish finish with visible surface abrasions; features a wide, flat rim with a deep circular well; no engraving or applied borders.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in image; would likely be located on the reverse side (base), usually including 'Sterling' and a maker's mark or symbol.
Construction Details
Spun or die-struck construction; manufactured from a single sheet of silver to achieve a seamless, uniform thickness across the flange and well.
Functional Features
Flat wide rim for easy lifting; recessed center to catch condensation or hold a small bread roll; stackable design.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; this is a rimmed dish without handles or additional grips.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality; reflects high-precision machine spinning with excellent symmetry and a smooth transition from the rim to the center well.
Authentication Indicators
Surface wear patterns suggest a soft metal like silver rather than steel; lack of 'bubbling' suggests solid metal rather than cheap electroplate.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or Scandinavia; following the minimalist traditions of modern factory-produced high-quality silver.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1945-1970); characterized by the 'form follows function' aesthetic and lack of ornate Victorian ornamentation.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1970; dating based on the simplified profile and the heavy presence of circular hairline scratches indicative of long-term utility.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the post-WWII move toward streamlined domestic life and the democratization of luxury silver through simplified manufacturing.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; significant surface scratching and micro-pitting consistent with use as a coaster or flatware contact; light tarnish halo around the rim edge.
Value Estimate
$40 - $80 USD (if sterling silver) based on melt value plus a modest collector premium; $5 - $15 if silver plated.
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash with mild soap; polish with a high-quality cream like Wright's Silver Cream to remove surface oxidation; store in a Pacific Silvercloth bag.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. 'Salem' pattern plates; Gorham 'Puritan' line; Revere-style small bowls.
Interesting Facts
Items like these were often sold in sets of 6 or 12 as wedding gifts during the mid-20th century, representing the shift away from ornate 'heirloom' patterns to practical elegance.