Sheridan Silver Co. Electroplated Silver Plate Tray or Platter
Hollowware (Tray/Platter) · Sheridan Silver Co., based in Taunton, Massachusetts. Founded in 1946, the company became known for mass-produced silver-plated hollowware following WWII. It was later acquired by the Taunton Silversmiths division of Lenox.
Pattern: Undetermined plain pattern; Sheridan frequently produced Georgian-style and Paul Revere reproduction lines, but this piece appears to be a functional, minimally decorated serving tray.
Type
Hollowware (Tray/Platter)
Maker
Sheridan Silver Co., based in Taunton, Massachusetts. Founded in 1946, the company became known for mass-produced silver-plated hollowware following WWII. It was later acquired by the Taunton Silversmiths division of Lenox.
Material
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver - EPNS). The base metal is likely a copper or nickel alloy with a thin electroplated layer of silver.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of 10-14 inches based on typical platter sizing. Weight is likely substantial due to the dense base metal, typically ranging between 400g to 800g depending on thickness.
Description
This Sheridan Silver Co. platter represents the peak of affordable American silver plating. Featuring the iconic 'S' hallmark, it offers a high-shine mirror finish intended to mimic the look of solid sterling at a fraction of the cost. The minimalist design makes it a versatile serving piece, fitting for both mid-century hostesses and contemporary tables.
Key Features
The distinctive crowned 'S' maker's mark; the high-gloss electroplated finish; and the lack of traditional ornate engraving, signaling a functionalist design approach.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver - EPNS). The base metal is likely a copper or nickel alloy with a thin electroplated layer of silver.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish finish on the flat surface. The piece is largely undecorated, lacking the ornate repoussé or chasing often found on high-end sterling, designed for mid-century modern utility and classic simplicity.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The prominent hallmark is the 'S' inside a laurel wreath or shield, which is the signature stamp for Sheridan Silver Co. It does not carry 'Sterling' or '925' marks, confirming it is silver plate.
Construction Details
Machine-made through a spinning or die-stamping process. In mass-market silver plate from this era, the pieces are formed over molds for uniformity rather than being hand-raised.
Functional Features
Flat serving surface with a raised or slightly concave rim to prevent liquid runoff. Designed for durability and frequent household use.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - This appears to be a circular tray without handles; the outer rim serves as the primary grip point.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard industrial production. The mark is deeply struck but the surface lacks the depth of hand-finishing. Quality is consistent with durable 20th-century American manufacturing.
Authentication Indicators
The hallmark is consistent with known Sheridan marks from the 1950s. The gray/black tarnish behavior is typical of silver plate, and the lack of a 'Sterling' stamp confirms its composition.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in Taunton, Massachusetts (USA), often referred to as 'Silver City' due to the concentration of companies like Reed & Barton and Sheridan.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Post-War Era (1946-1970s). This characterizes the shift from handcrafted luxury sterling to accessible, machine-manufactured silver-plated goods for middle-class American homes.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1970. The hallmark style and the condition of the surface indicate a mid-to-late 20th-century production date.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-WWII American 'Entertaining' culture where silver-plated sets became a standard wedding gift for middle-class families entering the suburban lifestyle.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible heavy tarnish (sulfide deposits) near the top edge. Surface shows significant 'spider-web' scratching and scuffs consistent with heavy use and repeated cleaning with abrasive cloths.
Value Estimate
$15 - $40 USD. As a silver-plated item from a mass-producer, its value resides in its utility and aesthetic rather than metal weight or rarity.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a non-abrasive silver cream such as Wright's. Avoid dishwasher use, as the heat and detergents will strip the thin silver plating and expose the yellow/grey base metal. Store in a Pacific Silvercloth bag.
Similar Pieces
Oneida silver-plated trays, Gorham EP (Electro-Plate) platters, or International Silver Co. hollowware. These are often heavier or may have 'gadroon' (rope) borders.
Interesting Facts
Sheridan Silver Co. was part of the 'Silver City' heritage in Taunton and helped popularize silver as an everyday household item rather than an heirloom kept in a vault.