Silver Flatware Value Guide
How to tell if your silver is valuable
Sterling silver flatware has value based on its silver content and weight. Silver-plated items typically have little intrinsic metal value. This guide explains how to identify sterling silver and understand its value.
Sterling Silver vs Silver-Plated
- Sterling silver (marked .925 or "Sterling") is 92.5% pure silver
- Silver-plated items have a thin layer of silver over a base metal (copper, nickel)
- Sterling silver has significant metal value; silver-plated usually does not
- How to tell: look for "925", "Sterling", lion hallmark, or maker's marks
How to Identify Sterling Silver
- Check for stamps: "925", "Sterling", "Ster"
- Look for hallmarks (especially on British silver)
- Magnet test: silver is not magnetic
- Professional evaluator can test definitively
Weight and Measurement
- Sterling flatware is heavier than plated
- Value is based on total silver weight
- A complete sterling silver set can weigh several pounds
- Weighted items (like candlesticks) contain fill material, reducing silver content
Current Silver Market
- Silver prices fluctuate daily
- Silver is currently at historically elevated prices
- Value = weight x purity (0.925) x current silver price per gram
Antique and Collectible Value
- Some silver pieces have value beyond their metal content
- Sought-after makers: Tiffany, Gorham, Reed & Barton, Wallace
- Pattern, age, and condition affect collector value
- A licensed evaluator can assess both metal and collectible value
Have Silver Flatware? Find Out Its Value
Schedule a confidential, no-obligation evaluation with a licensed precious metals evaluator.
Legal
- This website does not authenticate or guarantee any item.
- Final evaluations are completed exclusively in person by the licensed evaluator.
- This website facilitates appointment scheduling only.
- All decisions are made solely by the licensed evaluator during the in-person appointment.