Adding to a silverware or flatware pattern is easy online, since there are photographs and search terms that give the searcher clear information to compare with an existing pattern. This helps keep the market alive for both buyer and seller. It is imperative that the seller identify the flatware by maker and name and that good search terms are used in the title of any silverware listed for sale.
Learn how to Identify Silverware or Flatware
The back of any piece of silverware other than a knife may provide keys to identification. Information as to maker and composition as well as country of origin is common. The pattern name may be shown, too, although it is most often not. Knives are marked on the blade in a faint etch, and a magnifying glass may be necessary to read the marks on a blade. An easy way to identify silverware or flatware is with a search engine. Enter the information from the back of the silverware and compare photos to find the pattern name. The pattern name or number is essential to listing flatware for sale.
Stainless Flatware is Collectible
Along with sterling silver and silverplate, stainless steel flatware is also in demand. Many discontinued stainless patterns are only available on the secondary market, and with the increase in steel prices in recent years, heavy stainless steel is desirable. Weight and composition are market considerations.
Items in demand in stainless, sterling, or silverplate are vintage collectible patterns and particularly serving pieces or unusual items like food pushers.
E.P.N.S., Triple Plate, and A+ are Silverplate; Sterling and Stainless are Marked
Sterling will be marked with hallmarks on the back, and likely the word, “sterling,” but other marks are not as definitive. EPNS or E.P.N.S. is electroplated nickel silver or silverplate. So are triple plate and A+. Stainless is usually marked clearly, and the composition may be given in 18/8 or 18/10 or 18/0. 18 refers to chromium content, and the second number refers to nickel content. 18/8 and 18/10 are desirable, but 18/0 does not retain the shine and rust-inhibiting properties as well.
Cleaning Flatware and Silverware for Online Sale
Stainless can be polished with glass stove top cleaner to restore some shine, and sterling silver and silverplate should be cleaned with silver polish. Silver flatware must be cleaned prior to sale—the market demands it. Rust spots on any composition of silverware may be removed with stove top cleaner or metal cleaner.
Cautions for Buying for Resale
Silverplate has a coating of silver over a base metal, and often has wear at the heel of forks and spoons. Wear is damage to the collector, so it is important to check for damage before purchase and describe damage in the listing of silverplate for sale.
Sterling silver is the same throughout, and will not show wear as easily. It damages more readily than silverplate, and sterling silver knife handles often have dents and dings on the sides.
Stainless flatware shows scratches with use. The best stainless for resale is unused in the plastic or slightly used with the original shine.
The market exists to sell vintage flatware and silverware online. If there is a supply nearby, the entrepreneur can take advantage of the resources of the internet to capitalize on this niche market.
Linda Richard - Writer, proofreader, editor, antiques appraiser specializing in pottery and glass. Author of Retirement Living Guide series.
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