1847 Rogers Bros. Heritage Pattern Silverplate Flatware
Flatware · International Silver Co. under the 1847 Rogers Bros. brand; based in Meriden, Connecticut. One of the most significant American silver marques for the mass market.
Pattern: Heritage (introduced in 1953 by International Silver). It is now discontinued but remains widely available on the secondary market.
Type
Flatware
Maker
International Silver Co. under the 1847 Rogers Bros. brand; based in Meriden, Connecticut. One of the most significant American silver marques for the mass market.
Material
High-quality Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS). The base is a copper-nickel-zinc alloy known as nickel silver, which is then electroplated with a layer of pure silver.
Dimensions
Standard American flatware sizing. For a teaspoon, approx 6 inches; for a fork, approx 7.5 inches. Relatively heavy due to the cast nickel silver base metal composition.
Description
A classic example of 20th-century silverplate excellence, the Heritage pattern by 1847 Rogers Bros. is characterized by its romantic, pierced handle design. It features elegant blossoms and swirling vines that offer a heavy, luxurious feel in the hand, mimicking the opulence of high-end sterling silver from earlier centuries.
Key Features
Pierced open-work on the handle, the iconic 'IS' stamp, and the deep-relief floral motifs characteristic of mid-century floral patterns.
Material & Composition
High-quality Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS). The base is a copper-nickel-zinc alloy known as nickel silver, which is then electroplated with a layer of pure silver.
Finish & Decoration
Pierced Floral Art Nouveau Revival style with heavy scrollwork and floral motifs. Features a polished finish with intentional oxidation (patina) often used in the recessed areas to highlight the floral detail.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The stamp visible is '1847 ROGERS BROS. IS', where '1847' signifies the historic brand year and 'IS' stands for International Silver Company. The absence of the word 'Sterling' confirms it is silverplate.
Construction Details
Precision die-struck manufacturing using heavy industrial presses to achieve the deep, crisp relief and piercing typical of the Heritage pattern.
Functional Features
Balanced ergonomics for mid-century American dining; large handles intended for daily use and durability.
Handle & Grip Details
Flared, shaped handle with ornate pierced scrollwork; solid metal construction throughout.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality machine die-striking. Edge finishing is smooth, and the piercing is clean with no jagged burrs, indicating quality industrial oversight.
Authentication Indicators
Clear, deep stamp '1847 ROGERS BROS. IS'; the font and alignment are consistent with late mid-century production standards of International Silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in the United States, specifically Meriden, CT, the historic 'Silver City'. Manufactured by the International Silver Company workshop.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern Art Nouveau Revival (1950s). It reflects the Victorian nostalgia of the early post-war period.
Age Estimate
Circa 1953-1970, based on the pattern introduction date and the specific 'IS' logo format.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-WWII American aspiration for affordable luxury, allowing middle-class families to own elaborate, high-style dining services.
Condition Notes
The image shows significant tarnish and 'plate loss' (bleeding) where the yellowish nickel-silver base is beginning to show through the silver plating. Overall Good to Fair condition.
Value Estimate
$2.00 - $8.00 USD per piece depending on the specific form; serving pieces command higher prices. The visible plate wear significantly impacts value.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream (e.g., Wright's). Avoid aggressive scrubbing, as the silver layer is thin. Store in Pacific Silvercloth to prevent further sulfur tarnish.
Similar Pieces
Oneida Community 'Affection' pattern, or International Silver 'First Love'. These share the same floral-heavy aesthetic but differ in specific bloom shapes.
Interesting Facts
Despite the '1847' stamp, the pieces were not made in 1847; that year refers to when the three Rogers brothers perfected the silverplating process in Hartford, Connecticut.