International Silver Co. Revelation Pattern Silver Plate Dinner Fork
Flatware - Dinner Fork · International Silver Company (IS), Meriden, Connecticut. Formed in 1898 from a merger of several leading US silver companies.
Pattern: Revelation pattern, first introduced in 1938. It is a floral Mid-Century transitional design.
Type
Flatware - Dinner Fork
Maker
International Silver Company (IS), Meriden, Connecticut. Formed in 1898 from a merger of several leading US silver companies.
Material
Silver plate on white metal base. The decorative silver layer is electroplated over a non-precious copper, nickel, and zinc alloy.
Dimensions
Approximately 7.25 to 7.5 inches in length. Standard dinner fork weight, approximately 45-55 grams.
Description
This is a classic example of American mid-market silver-plated flatware. The Revelation pattern by International Silver features a delicate asymmetric floral spray on the handle terminal, blending utility with the domestic elegance of the late 1930s. It was designed to provide the look of sterling silver at a price point accessible to the average American family.
Key Features
Single-sided floral strike, 'REVELATION' specific brand stamp, streamlined silhouette, and distinctive golden-brown tarnish characteristic of aged plating.
Material & Composition
Silver plate on white metal base. The decorative silver layer is electroplated over a non-precious copper, nickel, and zinc alloy.
Finish & Decoration
Polished finish with die-struck floral bouquet and scroll motif on the handle. Stylistic features of late Art Deco with early Mid-Century Modern floral realism.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'REVELATION SILVER PLATE' on the reverse side of the neck. No sterling or purity marks are present.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured through die-striking. The tines and handle are stamped from a single sheet of base metal then silver-plated.
Functional Features
Four-tined design for main course dining. Uniform tine length and broad shoulder for stability.
Handle & Grip Details
Tapering flat handle with a terminal flare; integrated construction with no separate grip materials.
Craftsmanship Details
Quality industrial machine work. Strong die-definition in the floral design, but lacking the hand-chased depth of luxury silver.
Authentication Indicators
Clear identifying manufacturer's stamp. The word 'PLATE' explicitly confirms it is not solid silver. Wear patterns show base metal exposure in high-contact areas.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States, likely Meriden or Bridgeport, Connecticut. Mass-produced for suburban households.
Era & Period
Late Depression Era / Pre-War Mid-Century. Reflects the transition from ornamental deco to streamlined domestic floral styles.
Age Estimate
Circa 1938-1950. Based on the 1938 pattern patent date and typical production lifespan.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of 'fine dining' in the 20th century where middle-class families could own coordinated table services.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible heavy tarnish on the tines and shoulder (sulfide accumulation). Potential 'heel wear' on the reverse. Surface scratches from use.
Value Estimate
$1.00 - $5.00 USD. Silver-plated individual pieces have low resale value unless part of a very large complete set.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream (e.g., Wright's). Avoid abrasive sponges which will strip the thin silver layer and reveal the yellowish base metal.
Similar Pieces
Oneida Community Plate 'Morning Star' or Rogers Bros 'Adoration'. Both are contemporary floral plated patterns of the same era.
Interesting Facts
International Silver Co. was once the world's largest manufacturer of silver-plated flatware, supplying everything from luxury liners to military mess halls.