Pilgrim Silver Co. Silver Plated Flatware Piece
Flatware (Serving Piece or Utensil) · Pilgrim Silver Co., an American manufacturer known for producing accessible silver-plated hollowware and flatware, primarily during the mid-20th century.
Pattern: Unspecified traditional or floral-embossed pattern, typical of mid-century American silver plate production.
Type
Flatware (Serving Piece or Utensil)
Maker
Pilgrim Silver Co., an American manufacturer known for producing accessible silver-plated hollowware and flatware, primarily during the mid-20th century.
Material
Silver Plate (EPNS or silver-plated base metal alloy, likely containing nickel, copper, or brass beneath the plating).
Dimensions
Standard flatware dimensions, weight typical of silver-plated utility or serving flatware.
Description
An attractive silver-plated flatware piece featuring clear maker markings from the Pilgrim Silver Co. The handle displays a classic floral or foliate motif near the stem, reflecting the accessible decorative tableware popular in American households during the mid-20th century.
Key Features
Clear manufacturer stamp reading 'PILGRIM SILVER CO.' and 'DOUBLE PLATE', combined with decorative embossed foliate detailing.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (EPNS or silver-plated base metal alloy, likely containing nickel, copper, or brass beneath the plating).
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver plate with embossed or cast floral/foliate decorative motifs near the handle terminal.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The visible stamp reads 'PILGRIM SILVER CO.' accompanied by the words 'DOUBLE PLATE' indicating a standard electroplated silver layer over a base metal.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured, likely die-struck or cast base metal with subsequent electroplating and hand-finishing.
Functional Features
Standard utility or serving flatware functionality designed for dining use.
Handle & Grip Details
Integrated silver-plated handle featuring raised decorative foliage at the neck.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial-grade mid-century manufacturing, featuring clean die-struck detailing and reliable electroplated finish.
Authentication Indicators
Authentic maker's mark typography and 'DOUBLE PLATE' designation characteristic of mid-century American silver plate manufacturing.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States, manufactured by Pilgrim Silver Co.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Mid-20th Century (c. 1930s-1960s).
Age Estimate
Circa 1940s-1960s based on the company's operational period and stamping style.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the post-WWII American domestic culture where accessible silver-plated tableware allowed families to emulate formal dining traditions.
Condition Notes
Moderate surface tarnish and minor scratching consistent with age and use. The underlying silver plating appears mostly intact with minor wear spots typical of vintage plated flatware. Overall condition is Very Good for a vintage plated piece.
Value Estimate
Modest market value ranging from $5 to $20 depending on the specific form and overall condition, as silver-plated items are generally valued for utility and decorative appeal rather than melt value.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Use a mild silver polish specifically formulated for silver plate only when necessary to avoid wearing through the thin plated layer. Store in a tarnish-resistant cloth.
Similar Pieces
Similar silver-plated flatware items by manufacturers such as Wm. Rogers, Oneida, and Holmes & Edwards.
Interesting Facts
Pilgrim Silver Co. pieces were widely distributed across American department stores, offering middle-class families an affordable way to set an elegant table with silver-plated wares.