Wm. Rogers Silver-Plated Hollowware, Canadian Production
Hollowware (likely Tray, Platter, or Serving Dish) · Wm. Rogers, specifically produced by the Canadian branch of International Silver Co. in Hamilton, Ontario. The Rogers name is one of the most famous in American silver history, founded by the Rogers brothers in the 1840s; this specific mark represents the late mass-production era.
Pattern: Unidentified pattern based on hallmark alone; the design number '91-14' refers to the specific shape or mold in the company's Canadian catalog.
Type
Hollowware (likely Tray, Platter, or Serving Dish)
Maker
Wm. Rogers, specifically produced by the Canadian branch of International Silver Co. in Hamilton, Ontario. The Rogers name is one of the most famous in American silver history, founded by the Rogers brothers in the 1840s; this specific mark represents the late mass-production era.
Material
Silver Plate (Electroplated White Metal). 'E.P. W.M.' stamped on the piece stands for Electroplated White Metal, indicating a layer of silver over a base of white metal alloy (antimony, tin, or lead-based).
Dimensions
Hollowware scale (likely 30cm to 50cm in length). Weight is non-intrinsic to value as it is silver plate rather than sterling.
Description
This piece is a classic example of Canadian-manufactured silver-plated hollowware from the venerable Wm. Rogers line. While the 'Wm. Rogers' name evokes the early pioneers of the industry, this specific piece represents the transition to accessible, mass-market luxury items popular in middle-class households across North America during the mid-20th century. It features the signature eagle and star trademarks used to distinguish the Rogers brand within the larger International Silver portfolio.
Key Features
The most critical feature is the 'E.P. W.M.' stamp, which explicitly identifies it as electroplated rather than sterling. The model number '91-14' is a hallmark of the Hamilton factory's inventory system.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (Electroplated White Metal). 'E.P. W.M.' stamped on the piece stands for Electroplated White Metal, indicating a layer of silver over a base of white metal alloy (antimony, tin, or lead-based).
Finish & Decoration
High-polish silver plating with heavy surface scratching from use. Based on typical pieces from this line, it likely features a mid-century traditional aesthetic with cast borders or engraved floral motifs common in the 1940s-60s.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The stamp features an eagle and a star flanking 'WM ROGERS'; below is 'HAMILTON, CAN.' referencing the Ontario production site. 'E.P. W.M.' denotes the material composition, and '91-14' is the production model or catalog number.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured. The primary body is die-struck or pressed from sheet metal, then electroplated in a silver bath. Details like feet or handles are typically cast and soldered on.
Functional Features
Standard serving utility. The 'White Metal' base provides a heavier feel and better durability for everyday use compared to cheaper nickel-silver or copper bases in some instances.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A from image; typically cast white metal with silver plating, often in scroll or shell motifs to match the '91' series catalog design.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial-grade quality. While not hand-wrought, the plating is generally thick and the metal stampings are crisp, reflecting the high manufacturing standards of the Ontario International Silver plant during its prime.
Authentication Indicators
The eagle and star are authentic trademarks of the Wm. Rogers line. The depth and spacing of the stamp are consistent with hydraulic pressing used in the Hamilton factory.
Origin & Manufacturing
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Manufactured by a subsidiary of the International Silver Company, which consolidated many American and Canadian silver brands.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (post-1930s). The specific use of the Hamilton, Ontario mark and the 'E.P. W.M.' designation is characteristic of International Silver’s Canadian operations during the mid-century peak of silver-plated dinnerware.
Age Estimate
Circa 1940–1965. The typography of the 'Hamilton, Can' stamp and the catalog numbering system are typical of this window.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Sunday Dinner' culture of 20th-century North America, where silver-plated trays and platters were essential gifts for weddings and anniversaries, symbolizing domestic stability and refinement.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. There is significant surface scratching ('spider-webbing') consistent with heavy use and improper cleaning (likely with abrasive cloths). No obvious 'plate loss' (wearing through to the grey base metal) is visible in the photo, but it is a future risk.
Value Estimate
$10–$40 USD. Silver-plated hollowware currently has low market demand due to the maintenance required and high production volume of this era. Value is primarily decorative rather than as a precious metal investment.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soap and water. Use a non-abrasive silver cream like Wright's. Avoid 'silver dips' which can strip the thin plating. Store in a tarnish-resistant bag to minimize polishing frequency.
Similar Pieces
Gorham Silver Plate, Oneida Community Plate, or Reed & Barton Silver Plate. These are often confused with Sterling silver because they look identical when polished; always look for the word 'Sterling' or '.925'.
Interesting Facts
The Rogers brothers were so successful that dozens of companies started using the 'Rogers' name to ride their coattails, leading to some of the first major trademark lawsuits in the U.S. and Canada. This piece is a 'legal' Rogers, made by the legitimate successor company.