Coronet Plate Quadruple Silver Plate Serving Tray
Hollowware (Serving Tray/Platter) · The Coronet Plate mark was primarily used by the E.G. Webster & Son company (founded 1886 in Brooklyn, NY) or associated American silver-plating firms of the late 19th century. These makers were known for producing mass-market Victorian plated goods for middle-class households.
Pattern: Unidentified standard Victorian floral/scroll pattern; production likely discontinued circa 1920.
Type
Hollowware (Serving Tray/Platter)
Maker
The Coronet Plate mark was primarily used by the E.G. Webster & Son company (founded 1886 in Brooklyn, NY) or associated American silver-plating firms of the late 19th century. These makers were known for producing mass-market Victorian plated goods for middle-class households.
Material
Quadruple Silver Plate on White Metal (Antimony/Lead/Tin alloy). 'Quadruple Plate' was a marketing term indicating a thicker layer of electrodeposited silver compared to standard 'Single Plate' items.
Dimensions
Estimated 30-45 cm in length. Weight is substantial due to the base metal, likely 800-1200 grams, but has no scrap value as it contains minimal precious metal.
Description
An American Victorian-era silver-plated serving tray featuring a quadruple-strength electroplate finish. While the base metal is non-precious, the piece exemplifies the industrial era's ability to replicate the look of Fine Sterling for the emerging middle class.
Key Features
The 'Coronet' brand name and 'Quadruple' designation. The four-digit number '1867' serves as the primary identifier for the specific mold or pattern size in the manufacturer's catalog.
Material & Composition
Quadruple Silver Plate on White Metal (Antimony/Lead/Tin alloy). 'Quadruple Plate' was a marketing term indicating a thicker layer of electrodeposited silver compared to standard 'Single Plate' items.
Finish & Decoration
Electroplated silver with a mirror polish (now tarnished/worn). Decoration typically includes engraved floral motifs or a chased central cartouche, consistent with the late Victorian aesthetic.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The item is stamped 'Coronet', 'PLATE', 'QUADRUPLE', and the number '1867'. Note: '1867' is a design/catalog number, not a production date.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed or die-struck from a flat sheet of base metal, then electroplated. Decorative borders or handles would be cast separately and soldered on using low-temperature lead solder.
Functional Features
Flat serving surface with raised edges to contain juices or spills; intended for tea service or meat presentation.
Handle & Grip Details
If present, handles would likely be cast white metal with applied silver plating, often in a scroll or vine shape.
Craftsmanship Details
Factory-grade production. The stamp is uneven, and the construction relies on mechanical pressing rather than hand-hammered 'raising' used in high-end silver work.
Authentication Indicators
The absence of 'Sterling' or '925' marks confirm this is plated. The 'Quadruple' mark is a definitive indicator of late 19th-century American silver-plate manufacturing standards.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States (likely Brooklyn, NY or Connecticut). Manufactured in a factory setting using industrial electroplating tanks.
Era & Period
Late Victorian/Gilded Age (c. 1890-1910). This period favored heavy ornamentation and the democratization of luxury through silver-plating technologies.
Age Estimate
Circa 1895–1915. The 'Quadruple Plate' terminology and the font of the stamp are hallmarks of American production from this specific twenty-year window.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Silver Age' of American manufacturing, where mass production allowed families to emulate the dining rituals of the British aristocracy at a fraction of the cost.
Condition Notes
Fair. There is visible 'bleeding' (base metal showing through silver), heavy tarnish, and surface scratches. Silver plate of this era is prone to pitting if the plating is breached.
Value Estimate
$20 - $50 USD. Plated items have very low market value compared to Sterling, primarily serving as decorative pieces rather than investment-grade antiques.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid abrasive cleaners or 'dips' which can strip the thin silver layer. Use a mild cream like Wright's Silver Cream sparingly. Once the base metal is exposed, only re-plating can restore the appearance.
Similar Pieces
Items by Meriden B. Company, Rogers Bros, or Forbes Silver Co. which competed for the same household market during the late 1800s.
Interesting Facts
The term 'Quadruple Plate' was actually a standard of weight (using 8 troy ounces of silver per gross of teaspoons) rather than literally four layers of silver.