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Odd Pieces
If your sterling silver flatware consists of odd or unmatched pieces, you can sell it to any precious metals buyer. In most cases, you will be paid based upon the metal content alone. Silver buyers are sometimes affiliated with antiques dealers, but most buy silver that is destined for the smelter. The price you receive will be based upon the commodity price for the metal. If silver prices are rising rapidly you may wish to wait for a price uptick and then dispose of the items. Keep in mind that the copper has value as well. Insist that the buy offer be itemized to include the value of both metals. If you don't feel you are being offered a fair price, don't sell; check with another buyer.
Serving Pieces
If your sterling flatware includes serving pieces such as a carving set, sugar shell or ice cream knife, contact a reputable antiques dealer or flatware buyer. Serving pieces are much rarer than relatively common knives and forks and may have much greater value than the silver they are fashioned from. If the pieces carry the additional cachet of a famous maker such as Tiffany, their value increases accordingly.
Small Sets
If your sterling consists of several small but complete table settings, their value is higher. Many sterling buyers actively search for complete sets, which they resell to collectors or parties interested in enlarging a flatware set they already own. In this case, the breadth of your silver collection becomes more relevant, as complete table settings are worth considerably more than odd pieces. If you decide to sell, request a per table setting price as well as a separate price for the entire lot.
Estate Sets
If you are the lucky owner of a complete estate set of sterling silver, you may have entered the lofty realm of the "seller's market." Estate sets of 12 and their accompanying serving pieces are extremely rare. If yours includes the wooden storage chest, so much the better, as it becomes even more valuable. Contact a prominent auction house and request an appraisal. Large complete sets of sterling flatware often fetch prices approaching six figures. The auction company may offer to buy your set outright, or you can consider allowing them to sell it at a public sale. Contact several auction companies, and don't feel obligated to sell to anyone. What you possess is extremely valuable. Treat it as such.