Sheridan Silver Co. Pierced Oval Silverplate Serving Platter
Hollowware (Serving Tray/Platter) · Sheridan Silver Co., Taunton, Massachusetts. Founded in 1944, Sheridan is well-known for producing high-quality silver-plated hollowware, later becoming a division of Taunton Silversmiths and eventually Leonard Silver Mfg. Co.
Pattern: Pierced Edge Oval. It is an un-named decorative pattern featuring a continuous band of geometric reticulation (piercing) along the rim.
Type
Hollowware (Serving Tray/Platter)
Maker
Sheridan Silver Co., Taunton, Massachusetts. Founded in 1944, Sheridan is well-known for producing high-quality silver-plated hollowware, later becoming a division of Taunton Silversmiths and eventually Leonard Silver Mfg. Co.
Material
Silver Plate on Copper (indicated by the 'E.P. ON COPPER' stamp). This involves electroplating a layer of pure silver over a solid copper base.
Dimensions
Estimated length 12-14 inches, width 8-10 inches. Weight is likely substantial (approx. 500-800 grams) due to the heavy copper base which provides better durability than brass or nickel-silver bases.
Description
This elegant oval platter by Sheridan Silver Co. captures the classic aesthetic of English Sheffield Plate at a more accessible mid-century price point. Featuring a meticulously pierced gallery and a lustrous silver-over-copper construction, the piece offers a warm, substantial feel. The contrast between the solid central well and the airy, geometric openwork of the rim makes it a versatile serving piece that bridges the gap between formal dining and mid-century hospitality.
Key Features
The 'E.P. ON COPPER' designation is key, as copper-base plating is generally considered superior to 'E.P.B.M' (Britannia Metal) because copper takes silver plating more evenly and provides a beautiful 'bleed' of pinkish metal if the silver wears thin over decades.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate on Copper (indicated by the 'E.P. ON COPPER' stamp). This involves electroplating a layer of pure silver over a solid copper base.
Finish & Decoration
The piece features a bright-polished mirror finish with a Neo-classical style pierced gallery rim. The edge is finished with a beaded or gadroon-lite border. The interior surface shows signs of use and patina consistent with aged silverplate.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'E.P. ON COPPER' which stands for Electroplated on Copper, followed by the model number '1003'. It also features the Sheridan Silver Co. logo, typically a crest with a crown or a lion rampant depending on the specific production year.
Construction Details
Machine-stamped and die-cut. The central well is pressed into shape, while the decorative piercing along the rim is achieved through mechanical die-punching. The rim is likely reinforced with an applied wire or rolled edge.
Functional Features
Flat, wide surface designed for serving hors d'oeuvres, bread, or side dishes. The raised pierced gallery helps keep items centered on the tray while providing a secure grip for the server.
Handle & Grip Details
The platter is rim-handled; it does not feature separate attached handles. The pierced rim provides some ergonomic grip but is primarily decorative.
Craftsmanship Details
Displays high-quality industrial craftsmanship. The piercing is clean with no burrs, and the weight is well-balanced. It lacks the tool marks of a hand-wrought piece but shows the consistency of a well-made American manufactured product.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of the maker's logo and the specific model number 1003 are consistent with Sheridan catalogs. The wear pattern is consistent with authentic mid-century electroplate.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in the United States, specifically Taunton, Massachusetts—a historic hub for American silver production known as the 'Silver City.'
Era & Period
Mid-Century / Post-War (1940s-1960s). It utilizes traditional Georgian and Victorian aesthetic elements like piercing but was manufactured using industrial techniques common in the mid-20th century American silver industry.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1970. The marking style and the model number 1003 are typical of Sheridan's peak production years in Taunton.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-WWII American desire for formal home entertaining. Items like this were staples of wedding registries and middle-class dinner parties in the 1950s and 60s.
Condition Notes
Good condition. There is visible surface scratching (utensil marks) in the center of the tray and significant tarnish/sulfide deposits along the rim that will require polishing. No visible 'bleeding' of copper, suggesting the plating is still largely intact. Grade: Good.
Value Estimate
$25.00 - $65.00 USD. Value is based on utility and decorative appeal rather than bullion content, as silverplate has no significant scrap value.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream like Wright's or Hagerty. Avoid dishwasher use at all costs, as the heat and detergents will strip the silver plating and expose the copper base. Store in a tarnish-resistant cloth bag.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with Reed & Barton or Oneida pierced trays. The distinction lies in the Sheridan crest and the 'EP on Copper' stamp, whereas competitors often used 'EPNS' (Nickel Silver).
Interesting Facts
Sheridan relied on the 'Silver on Copper' marketing to appeal to buyers who wanted the weight and prestige associated with older 18th-century Old Sheffield Plate, even though these were modern electroplated items.