International Silver Co. 'Royal Danish' Pattern Sterling Silver Goblet
Hollowware (Drinking Vessel/Goblet) · International Silver Company, based in Meriden, Connecticut. Formed in 1898 from several smaller silver manufacturers, it became the largest silver manufacturer in the world, renowned for its 'International Sterling' line.
Pattern: Royal Danish, introduced in 1939. This is one of the company's most prestigious patterns, celebrated for its heavy gauge and Scandinavian Modern styling. It remains in production through various acquisitions.
Type
Hollowware (Drinking Vessel/Goblet)
Maker
International Silver Company, based in Meriden, Connecticut. Formed in 1898 from several smaller silver manufacturers, it became the largest silver manufacturer in the world, renowned for its 'International Sterling' line.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The base is likely 'weighted' or 'reinforced' if indicated (though high-quality goblets like this are often solid silver). Weight usually ranges from 150 to 200 grams if not weighted.
Dimensions
Standard goblet height, approximately 6.5 to 7.0 inches. Diameter at rim is roughly 3.5 inches. Weight varies by year of production but is typically substantial for the 'Royal Danish' line.
Description
An iconic example of American mid-century sterling silver, this Royal Danish goblet translates the minimalist elegance of Danish design into the robust format favored by American collectors. The bowl transitions seamlessly into a decorative, pierced stem that feels substantial in the hand, perfect for formal table settings.
Key Features
Pierced scrollwork on the stem, unadorned flared bowl, and high-quality heavy-duty sterling silver construction. It is a 'crossover' pattern that fits both traditional and modern decor.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The base is likely 'weighted' or 'reinforced' if indicated (though high-quality goblets like this are often solid silver). Weight usually ranges from 150 to 200 grams if not weighted.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish typical of the early 20th-century aesthetic. The pattern features a characteristic 'pierced' or openwork transition between the stem and the bowl with scrolled leaf motifs reflecting Danish Georg Jensen influences.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The underside of the base contains the 'International Sterling' wordmark, followed by the 'Royal Danish' pattern name, and the emblem of the International Silver company. A 'Weighted' or 'Reinforced' stamp may be present if the base is filled.
Construction Details
Machine-cast or die-struck components later hand-assembled and finished. The bowl is typically spun or raised, while the decorative stem is cast and soldered to the bowl and base.
Functional Features
Tapered bowl for bouquet retention, balanced stem for ergonomic gripping, and a wide circular foot for stability on a dining surface.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - The item features a central stem rather than a handle. The stem is decorated with the pattern's signature stylized floral and geometric motifs for texture and grip.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial craftsmanship. The soldering joints between the bowl and stem are virtually invisible, showing the high level of finishing expected from International Sterling's premium lines.
Authentication Indicators
Clear 'Sterling' and 'International' hallmarks on the underside. The proportions of the bowl diameter to the base diameter are consistent with authentic Royal Danish production.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America, specifically Meriden, Connecticut. Manufactured in high volume during the peak of American silver production.
Era & Period
Scandinavian Modern / Art Deco Influence (Mid-20th Century). Introduced in 1939, it reflects the global shift away from Victorian fussiness toward clean, industrial-inspired lines with organic accents.
Age Estimate
Circa 1940-1960. The depth of tarnish and the specific strike of the 'International Sterling' mark suggest a mid-century production date rather than a contemporary one.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Gilded Age' of American middle-class entertaining, where complete sets of sterling silver hollowware were standard wedding gifts and symbols of social arrival.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Good (monitored via tarnish). The image reveals heavy sulfide tarnish and surface patination typical of warehouse or estate storage. Some potential 'pitting' from acids in beverages may exist, but most appears to be surface tarnish.
Value Estimate
$300 - $600 USD per goblet. Value depends heavily on whether the piece is 'weighted' silver or solid sterling throughout, and current spot prices for precious metals.
Care & Maintenance
Requires hand polishing with a high-quality cream like Wright's or Hagerty. Avoid 'silver dips' as they can strip the desirable oxidation from the pattern's recessed details. Store in tarnish-resistant flannel when not in use.
Similar Pieces
Georg Jensen 'Acorn' (more expensive, hand-carved details), Wallace 'Grand Baroque' (more ornate), Gorham 'Chantilly' (more traditional).
Interesting Facts
The Royal Danish pattern was intentionally designed to compete with the high-cost imports of Georg Jensen during a time when Danish design was the pinnacle of global luxury.
Notes
Found at state sale