Reed & Barton No. 914 Silverplate Rectangular Serving Tray
Hollowware (Serving Tray/Platter) · Reed & Barton. Founded in 1824 in Taunton, Massachusetts, Reed & Barton was one of America's most prestigious and prolific silversmiths, known for high-quality production of both sterling and fine silverplate.
Pattern: Pattern No. 914. This is a numeric design series from their larger catalog of commercial and domestic hollowware.
Type
Hollowware (Serving Tray/Platter)
Maker
Reed & Barton. Founded in 1824 in Taunton, Massachusetts, Reed & Barton was one of America's most prestigious and prolific silversmiths, known for high-quality production of both sterling and fine silverplate.
Material
Silverplate (Electroplated Nickel Silver). The base metal is likely a copper-nickel alloy (nickel silver), which provides structural strength and a white metal base that mimics silver when the plating wears.
Dimensions
Estimated 12-14 inches in length and 8-10 inches in width. Weight is likely substantial (800-1200 grams) due to the heavy nickel silver base metal commonly used by Reed & Barton.
Description
This Reed & Barton No. 914 tray is a classic example of American industrial silverplate. Featuring the company's signature script on the reverse, the tray prioritizes functional elegance. While not sterling, Reed & Barton's silverplate was known for its 'extra heavy' coating, making these pieces staples in fine homes and high-end hotels during the mid-20th century.
Key Features
Diagnostic identification is provided by the cursive Reed & Barton mark and the specific 914 mold number. Notable for its heavy gauge construction.
Material & Composition
Silverplate (Electroplated Nickel Silver). The base metal is likely a copper-nickel alloy (nickel silver), which provides structural strength and a white metal base that mimics silver when the plating wears.
Finish & Decoration
Satin or brushed finish on the flat surface to hide knife marks and scratches. The decoration is minimalist, typical of industrial or transitional Mid-Century utility pieces, focusing on clean lines rather than ornate engraving.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The item is stamped with the cursive 'Reed & Barton' maker's mark and the pattern number '914'. It lacks the 'Sterling' or 'Lion Passant' marks, confirming it is silverplate.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed or die-struck from a heavy-gauge sheet of nickel silver. The edges appear finished by machine-polishing. This is a mass-produced industrial piece rather than a hand-raised item.
Functional Features
Flat rectangular surface with slightly raised or flared rims to prevent liquid runoff. Designed for durability in high-use environments such as dinner service or formal buffets.
Handle & Grip Details
Integration of handles is likely built into the flared rim of the tray (cut-out or integral handles), though the image primarily shows the central flat surface and bottom stamp.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard industrial craftsmanship. The stamp is crisp, indicating a high-quality die was used, but the item is a product of factory manufacturing rather than individual silversmithing.
Authentication Indicators
The mark matches known documented stamps of Reed & Barton. The presence of green oxidation (verdigris) is a common indicator of a silver-plated copper-alloy base rather than solid sterling silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States; Taunton, Massachusetts. Reed & Barton operated a massive factory complex there that utilized state-of-the-art electroplating technology for the era.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (c. 1940-1960). The font of the 'Reed & Barton' script and the numeric pattern system align with the company's mid-century catalogs and 'Hotel' or 'Commercial' lines.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950. Based on the stamping style and the wear pattern of the silverplate, which shows 'brassing' or metal oxidation consistent with 50-70 years of age.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-WWII American boom in 'formalizing' the domestic sphere, where silverplated serving ware allowed middle-class families to emulate the dining habits of the upper class.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. There is significant 'pitting' and tarnish visible (green/dark spots), which may indicate the silverplate has been breached and the base metal is oxidizing. Surface scuffing is heavy throughout.
Value Estimate
$20 - $45 USD. Value is hindered by the silverplate composition and the visible pitting/surface wear, which limits its appeal to decorative or 'shabby chic' use rather than investment collection.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver polish (e.g., Wright's Silver Cream). Do not use abrasive pads which will strip the remaining silver plating. Dry immediately to prevent further pitting.
Similar Pieces
International Silver Co. 'Hotel' line trays or Oneida silverplate platters. These often look identical but carry different numeric stamps and maker's logos.
Interesting Facts
Reed & Barton produced the medals for the 1996 Summer Olympics. Their silverplate was so well-regarded that it was frequently used by the U.S. Navy and luxury rail lines.