Sona Stratford-Upon-Avon Silver Plated Coaster
Wine Coaster · Sona (by Nutbrown Ltd. or associated British manufacturers), based in Stratford-upon-Avon, UK. Known for producing affordable domestic metalware and tableware during the mid-to-late 20th century.
Pattern: Standard domestic tabletop line, Model J.985, produced during the mid-20th century.
Type
Wine Coaster
Maker
Sona (by Nutbrown Ltd. or associated British manufacturers), based in Stratford-upon-Avon, UK. Known for producing affordable domestic metalware and tableware during the mid-to-late 20th century.
Material
Silver-plated base metal (likely nickel silver or brass base under electroplated nickel and silver). Features a characteristic felt or baize-lined bottom, typical of bottle coasters to protect furniture.
Dimensions
Standard wine bottle coaster size, approximately 10 to 12 cm (4 to 4.5 inches) in diameter. Weight is light to moderate, typical of weighted or base-supported plated domestic wares.
Description
A classic mid-century British silver-plated wine bottle coaster manufactured by Sona of Stratford-upon-Avon. Featuring a bright polished finish and a clean, understated profile with the maker's clear circular stamp on the underside, this piece is both practical and decorative for traditional dining settings.
Key Features
Clear manufacturer stamp 'SONA J.985 STRATFORD-UPON-AVON', classic circular raised gallery form, protective felt-lined base.
Material & Composition
Silver-plated base metal (likely nickel silver or brass base under electroplated nickel and silver). Features a characteristic felt or baize-lined bottom, typical of bottle coasters to protect furniture.
Finish & Decoration
Bright mirror polish on the metal rim with a simple stepped or flared circular profile. Minimalist design reflecting mid-century utilitarian aesthetic.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Impressed maker's mark reading 'SONA' with a registered trademark symbol, style number 'J.985', and origin city 'STRATFORD-UPON-AVON'. Indicates British manufacture for the domestic market.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed metal spinning with electroplated silver finish. The interior base is fitted with a protective pad, typical of mass-produced mid-century table articles.
Functional Features
Designed to hold wine or spirit bottles, catching condensation and preventing ring stains on dining tables or sideboards.
Handle & Grip Details
Rim is plain and unadorned, functioning as a simple raised gallery edge to contain the bottle.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial manufacturing quality. Clean metal spinning and uniform electroplating typical of mass-produced mid-century British tableware.
Authentication Indicators
Impressed maker's mark is crisp and authentic to the Sona factory output from Stratford-upon-Avon. Absence of traditional sterling hallmarks confirms electroplated silver-ware status.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, reflecting the British secondary manufacturing and giftware industries of the post-war era.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (circa 1950s-1970s), characterized by functional, clean, mass-market domestic metalware.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960s to 1980s, based on the typography of the stamp and the typical production window for Sona-branded household items.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war democratization of dining accessories, making polished metal tableware accessible to middle-class households.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good condition. Noticeable surface scratching and wear to the reflective metal finish, with slight tarnish build-up around the rims and minor iridescent patina (oil-canning effect under certain light). Structurally sound with no major dents.
Value Estimate
Low market value, typically ranging from $10 to $25 USD depending on condition and platform, valued primarily as a functional vintage tabletop accessory rather than an investment piece.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a non-abrasive silver polish or specialized dip designed for silver-plate. Avoid submerging in water to protect the protective base lining. Store in a dry environment.
Similar Pieces
Similar silver-plated bottle coasters produced by contemporary British makers such as Viners, Oneida, or Roberts & Belk.
Interesting Facts
Sona was a well-known household brand in the UK, frequently found in British homes during the mid-20th century for practical tabletop accessories and kitchenware.