International Silver Company Gadroon Edge Silverplate Small Tray, Model 674
Hollowware (Small Tray/Bread Plate/Card Tray) · International Silver Company (ISC). Formed in 1898 in Meriden, Connecticut, it was a conglomerate of the largest American silver manufacturers, known for high-volume quality silverplate for domestic and institutional use.
Pattern: Classic Gadroon Edge border; likely part of a standard hotel or commercial utility line due to the numeric model stamping (674).
Type
Hollowware (Small Tray/Bread Plate/Card Tray)
Maker
International Silver Company (ISC). Formed in 1898 in Meriden, Connecticut, it was a conglomerate of the largest American silver manufacturers, known for high-volume quality silverplate for domestic and institutional use.
Material
Silverplate over base metal (likely nickel silver or EPNS). The absence of a 'Sterling' mark confirms this is electroplated. Base metal is usually a copper-nickel-zinc alloy.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of 6 to 9 inches based on the scale of the stamping. Weight is typically around 200-400 grams depending on the thickness of the base metal.
Description
A classic example of American commercial silverplate, this tray features a clean circular form accented by a traditional gadroon border. The high-polish surface and substantial weight make it a functional piece for both formal dining and home organization. Its simple design language prioritizes durability and ease of cleaning, characteristic of the International Silver Company's post-war offerings.
Key Features
Prince of Wales feathers logo, Model 674 stamp, machine-perfect gadroon border, and lack of sterling fineness marks.
Material & Composition
Silverplate over base metal (likely nickel silver or EPNS). The absence of a 'Sterling' mark confirms this is electroplated. Base metal is usually a copper-nickel-zinc alloy.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish interior with a gadroon (slanted convex ribbing) decorative border. The style is Neoclassical revival, a very common and timeless motif in American silver production.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The piece features the International Silver Company name in block letters, topped by the Prince of Wales feathers (three plumes) logo. Below is the production model number '674'. No fineness marks (like 925) are present.
Construction Details
Machine-stamped and die-struck. The gadroon edge is part of the mold/die rather than applied individually. Consistent wall thickness indicates high-volume industrial production.
Functional Features
Slightly raised rim to contain small items; designed as a versatile utility tray for bread, beverages, or calling cards. Durable construction intended for frequent use.
Handle & Grip Details
None; this is a flat tray design with a simple raised decorative rim.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial craftsmanship. The stamp is well-centered and legible, and the die-struck border is crisp. It shows the precision of machine manufacturing over hand-wrought uniqueness.
Authentication Indicators
The 'International Silver Company' stamp is authentic for the period. The absence of 'Sterling' or '925' confirms it is rightfully categorized as silverplate. Wear is consistent with household use over several decades.
Origin & Manufacturing
Meriden, Connecticut, USA. Manufactured in one of the central ISC factories that specialized in durable silverplated hollowware.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (1940-1960). While the gadroon style is Georgian in origin, the specific stamping style and company logo placement are typical of mid-century American mass production.
Age Estimate
Circa 1945-1955. The wear patterns and font of the model number 674 align with ISC's mid-century output for the consumer and hospitality market.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of 'fine' dining in mid-century America, where silverplated items allowed middle-class families to achieve a formal aesthetic without the cost of solid sterling.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible surface scratching throughout the center (swirl marks from cleaning/usage). Some 'flea bite' nicks or pitting visible near the stamp. No signs of major 'bleeding' (base metal showing through plate).
Value Estimate
$10 - $25 USD. Silverplated hollowware of this type is extremely common; value is primarily functional rather than as a precious metal investment.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream like Wright's. Avoid abrasive scrubbers which will strip the silver layer and expose the yellow/gray base metal. Store in a tarnish-resistant cloth to minimize polishing frequency.
Similar Pieces
Gorham Silverplate trays, Reed & Barton 'Heritage' silverplate, or hotel-ware by Oneida. These are often heavier and marked 'Hotel Plate' whereas this is a consumer-grade piece.
Interesting Facts
The International Silver Company was once the largest silver manufacturer in the world. Their hotel-ware and silverplate lines were so durable they became the standard for major railway dining cars and luxury hotels across the United States.