Silver on Copper Footed Bowl / Punch Bowl Vessel by Sheridan Silver Co.
Hollowware (Bowl / Compote / Centerpiece) · Sheridan Silver Co. (Taunton, Massachusetts). Founded in 1946, Sheridan became prominent for manufacturing silver-plated hollowware, giftware, and tea services before being acquired by the Taunton Silversmiths / Lenox group in the late 1970s.
Pattern: Traditional Electroplated Copper Hollowware Line (Unassigned standard pattern)
Type
Hollowware (Bowl / Compote / Centerpiece)
Maker
Sheridan Silver Co. (Taunton, Massachusetts). Founded in 1946, Sheridan became prominent for manufacturing silver-plated hollowware, giftware, and tea services before being acquired by the Taunton Silversmiths / Lenox group in the late 1970s.
Material
Silver Plate on Copper ('Silver on Copper' / Electroplated Copper). Base metal consists of solid copper with a surface layer of electroplated pure silver.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter: 20-25 cm (8-10 inches); Height: 12-15 cm (5-6 inches); Estimated weight: 600-900 grams.
Description
A classic mid-century American silver-plated hollowware vessel produced by the Sheridan Silver Co. of Taunton, MA. Crafted by electroplating pure silver over a durable copper core, this piece exhibits substantial heft and classic traditional proportions. The underside showcases Sheridan's distinctive hallmark with a crown over a stylized shield mark, clearly denoting 'SILVER ON COPPER'. Currently featuring a deep, dark patina with colorful iridescent oxidation, this item offers excellent structural integrity for restoration or rustic display.
Key Features
Clear 'SILVER ON COPPER' mark with Sheridan's iconic crown and shield stamp, heavy copper core construction providing robust weight, spun circular body with reinforced lip.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate on Copper ('Silver on Copper' / Electroplated Copper). Base metal consists of solid copper with a surface layer of electroplated pure silver.
Finish & Decoration
Heavy tarnish with iridescent patination, original high-polish silver plate beneath oxidation, rolled or molded rim border detail.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped on base recessed cartouche: 'SILVER ON COPPER', featuring the Sheridan Silver Co. shield mark containing an 'S' flanked by decorative motifs and topped with a large crowned hallmark emblem.
Construction Details
Machine-spun hollowware body from a flat copper sheet, electroplated with silver after spinning, with a solder-attached footed base ring and applied rim wire.
Functional Features
Deep circular bowl form suited for serving, display, fruit centerpiece, or holding liquid/ice.
Handle & Grip Details
Smooth rim lip with no handles attached directly to the central bowl body visible in this orientation.
Craftsmanship Details
Commercial-grade industrial craftsmanship featuring precise metal spinning, clean solder connections at the base, and clear, even die-stamping on the underside.
Authentication Indicators
Authentic factory die-stamp on base with sharp lettering, correct manufacturer mark for Sheridan Silver Co., natural copper show-through/oxidation patterns typical of electroplated silver on copper.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States, Taunton, Massachusetts (Sheridan Silver Co. Works).
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century Modern / Vintage American Silver Plate (c. 1950s–1970s)
Age Estimate
Circa 1950s to 1970s based on manufacturer operations and stamp format.
Cultural Significance
Represents mid-century American suburban entertaining culture, where affordable yet elegant silver-on-copper hollowware allowed families to present sophisticated table settings without the extreme cost of solid sterling silver.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good vintage condition. Significant surface tarnish and oxidation present throughout the interior and base recess. Needs thorough polishing to restore original luster; minor silver wear to high points expected with age.
Value Estimate
$20 - $45 USD in current condition; $40 - $70 USD once fully polished.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water using a soft sponge, follow with a dedicated silver cream polish like Wright's Silver Cream using gentle pressure to avoid wearing down the electroplated silver layer over the copper base. Store in anti-tarnish bags.
Similar Pieces
Silver on copper hollowware by F.B. Rogers Silver Co., Sheffield Silver Co. (USA), Lehman Bros., or William A. Rogers silver-plated bowls.
Interesting Facts
Taunton, Massachusetts, where Sheridan was based, was famously known as the 'Silver City' due to the concentration of major silversmithing companies located there, including Reed & Barton and F.B. Rogers.