How to Date Silver Plate Hollowware

Stop by your local library or bookstore and read reference books with information about the history of silver plate hollowware and detailed photographs. One example of such as a book is ̶0;The Warner̵7;s Collectors Guide to American Sterling Silver and Silver-Plate Hollowware̶1; by James H. Burke.

Pick up the piece and, if possible, examine it closely. Older items will be heavily tarnished due to age. (While this is an authentic sign of age, keep in mind that tarnish may also camouflage any imperfections, scratches or damage.) If an item is bright and shiny, it's most likely a modern piece. In addition, look to ensure that the seams are soldered well and borders unbroken. These are signs of silver plate hollowware made in the late 1800s to mid 1900s.

Watch for silver plate hollowware that is heavily ornamental and intricately designed, as this was a common characteristic of Victorian silverwork that was favored in hollowware items.

Check the item for hammer marks, which were left in the metal when the silver was hammered into shape. During the Art Deco period (first half of the 20th century), hammer marks were considered artistic and were left visible on the metal for artistic value.

Look for pieces made by companies that manufactured silver plate hollowware in the late 1800s and early 1900s, such as Graff, Washburn and Dunn, Homan Silver Plate Co., Reed & Barton, Rogers, Forbes Silver Co., Lunt and Simpson and Hall & Miller.

Turn over the item and look for a maker̵7;s mark or signature. While not all antique silver plate is marked, almost all modern silver plate hollowware is, making the absence of a signature or mark a good sign of antiquity.