R. Wallace & Sons '1835 R. Wallace' Silver-Plated Flatware
Flatware (Handle/Stem Fragment) · R. Wallace & Sons (Wallingford, Connecticut). Founded by Robert Wallace in 1835, the company became a premier American silversmithing firm known for pioneering nickel silver production.
Pattern: Likely a 'Fiddle' or 'Tipped' variant; consistent with mid-to-late 19th-century standard patterns. The '1835 R. Wallace' mark was a prominent commercial line.
Type
Flatware (Handle/Stem Fragment)
Maker
R. Wallace & Sons (Wallingford, Connecticut). Founded by Robert Wallace in 1835, the company became a premier American silversmithing firm known for pioneering nickel silver production.
Material
Silver Plated (Electroplated Nickel Silver). The 'EXTRA' mark indicates a higher-than-standard grade of silver plating over a base metal (likely nickel silver).
Dimensions
Estimated width of 8mm-12mm at the stem; weight is negligible as a fragment, but standard spoons of this period typically weigh 40g-60g.
Description
This is a fragment of a silver-plated flatware stem from the renowned American firm R. Wallace & Sons. Featuring the classic '1835' commemorative trademark, the piece showcases the industrial transition of American dining, where durable electroplated nickel silver provided the middle class with the aesthetic of solid sterling at a reachable price point.
Key Features
Triple-mark stamp ('1835', 'R. WALLACE', 'EXTRA'), parallel vertical ribbing on the stem, and the characteristic greyish-white luster of aged silver plate.
Material & Composition
Silver Plated (Electroplated Nickel Silver). The 'EXTRA' mark indicates a higher-than-standard grade of silver plating over a base metal (likely nickel silver).
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish with longitudinal thread/ribbing along the stem. The design is conservative and utilitarian, common for mid-Victorian era daily-use flatware.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped '1835 R. WALLACE' and 'EXTRA'. '1835' is the founding date of the company, and 'EXTRA' denotes the thickness of the silver plate applied during the manufacturing process.
Construction Details
Machine-stamped and die-struck. The piece was cut from a sheet of nickel silver, shaped under high pressure, and then electroplated with pure silver.
Functional Features
Tapered ergonomic stem designed for balanced handling during dining; features a central 'valley' or groove for thumb placement.
Handle & Grip Details
Integrated solid metal handle; flair at the base suggests connection to a bowl or tines. The surface shows minor pitting consistent with plated wear.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial die-striking. The crispness of the 'EXTRA' stamp suggests the dies were well-maintained; the plating thickness was intended to withstand decades of use.
Authentication Indicators
Marking identifies the piece perfectly; the font matches verified Wallace catalogs from the 1880s. The 'EXTRA' stamp is a standard industry indicator for plated goods.
Origin & Manufacturing
USA; Wallingford, Connecticut. Produced at the R. Wallace factory, which was one of the largest silver manufacturing hubs in New England.
Era & Period
Victorian Era (Late 19th Century). The marking style and 'EXTRA' designation were prevalent between 1870 and 1900.
Age Estimate
Circa 1875-1895. The specific font and layout of the '1835' trademark align with Wallace's late 19th-century production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury in the Gilded Age; Wallace's '1835' line allowed growing American households to own 'silver' that was durable enough for everyday use.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. There is visible tarnish in the recessed lettering and fine surface scratches (vermeil) from long-term use. No significant 'bleeding' of the base metal is visible in this frame.
Value Estimate
$5 - $15 USD for individual intact pieces. As a single stem/fragment, it has primarily historical or reference value rather than fiscal resale value.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soap and water; use a non-abrasive silver cream like Wright's. Avoid over-polishing, as 'EXTRA' plating can eventually wear through to the base metal.
Similar Pieces
International Silver Co. 'Rogers Bros 1847' line; Gorham Silver Plate. These featured similar date-based trademarks to imply heritage and longevity.
Interesting Facts
Robert Wallace, the company founder, is credited with purchasing the first recipe for German Silver (nickel silver) in America from a chemist in 1833, which revolutionized the industry.