Vintage Silver Plated Hinged Keepsake or Stationery Box
Hollowware - Decorative Box / Stationery Case · Unidentified Maker / International Silver or European Manufacturer
Pattern: Traditional Diamond Lattice and Scroll Border
Type
Hollowware - Decorative Box / Stationery Case
Maker
Unidentified Maker / International Silver or European Manufacturer
Material
Silver Plated Metal over Base Metal Core (likely brass, copper, or white metal alloy)
Dimensions
Estimated rectangular box measuring approximately 8 to 10 inches wide, 6 to 8 inches deep, and 2 to 3 inches high.
Description
An elegant silver plated rectangular keepsake box shown open, featuring a highly reflective mirror-like interior base. The lid and inner rims are elaborately decorated with stamped diamond lattice patterns, beaded borders, and delicate scroll corners. A small decorative clasp adorns the front center, indicating a functional box meant for vanity or desk use.
Key Features
Reflective interior floor, stamped diamond lattice side panels, ornate border detailing, and front clasp closure.
Material & Composition
Silver Plated Metal over Base Metal Core (likely brass, copper, or white metal alloy)
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish interior with stamped and embossed lattice work, bead borders, scroll corner accents, and a decorative hinged clasp.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No clear maker's marks or stamps visible in the provided image; typical stamps would likely be found on the base or interior rim if marked.
Construction Details
Sheet metal construction with stamped decorative borders, soldered seams, and a functional hinge mechanism with a front clasp.
Functional Features
Hinged lid with a front latch for opening and closing, designed to hold letters, stationery, jewelry, or keepsakes.
Handle & Grip Details
No handles; features an ornate small central locking clasp on the front edge.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-stamped sheet metal components assembled and soldered together, showcasing standard mid-century decorative metalworking techniques.
Authentication Indicators
Typical construction methods for mid-century mass-produced decorative silver plate giftware; absence of traditional sterling hallmarks points to silver-plated base metal.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or European manufacturing, common during the mid-century giftware boom.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century / Vintage Era (likely circa 1950s-1970s)
Age Estimate
Circa 1950 to 1980
Cultural Significance
Reflects the mid-century domestic desire for decorative yet functional silver-toned items to organize personal letters, jewelry, and keepsakes.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition with surface hairline scratches and light scuffing on the interior base consistent with use and age. Silver plating appears largely intact with minor tarnish spots.
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges between $30 and $100 depending on exact maker, weight, and overall surface preservation.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft microfiber cloth and a mild silver polish specifically formulated for silverplate to avoid wearing through the thin plated layer. Store in a dry environment.
Similar Pieces
Similar silver-plated keepsake boxes produced by manufacturers like International Silver, Oneida, or various British and Italian silverplate workshops.
Interesting Facts
Boxes of this style were popular vanity and desk accessories throughout the mid-20th century, often given as wedding, anniversary, or graduation gifts.