Old Company Plate Value: The Ultimate Guide to Silverplate Valuation
Discover the true value of Old Company Plate silverware. Learn identification marks, price factors, and what makes this vintage silverplate worth collecting or selling.
By Appraisily TeamLast updated July 12, 2024
Old Company Plate silverware represents a slice of American dining history, with its elegant patterns and quality craftsmanship still attracting collectors today. If you’ve inherited or discovered pieces marked “Old Company Plate,” you might be wondering about their value and historical significance. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about Old Company Plate silverware, from its origins to current market values.
What is Old Company Plate?
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<span>Understanding Old Company Plate</span>
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<div class="section-header__body">Old Company Plate refers to silver-plated flatware and hollowware produced primarily in the mid-20th century. The brand is known for its quality craftsmanship and distinctive patterns, making it a recognizable name in vintage silverplate.</div>
Old Company Plate was a line of silver-plated flatware produced by International Silver Company, one of America’s largest silverware manufacturers. The brand gained popularity in the 1940s and 1950s for its affordable yet elegant designs that mimicked the look of sterling silver at a fraction of the cost.
The “Signature” pattern is among the most recognizable designs from Old Company Plate, featuring a clean, modern aesthetic that aligned with mid-century design preferences. This pattern was often sold with monogramming options, making each set somewhat personalized to the original owner.
Old Company Plate at a Glance
Historical Context and Manufacturing
Old Company Plate History
Late 1800s
International Silver Company Founded
International Silver Company was formed through the merger of several Connecticut silverware manufacturers.
1940s
Old Company Plate Introduction
The Old Company Plate line was introduced as an affordable silver-plated option for middle-class American households.
1950s
Peak Popularity
The Signature pattern became extremely popular during the post-war boom years, with many newlyweds receiving sets as wedding gifts.
1970s-1980s
Decline in Production
As stainless steel gained popularity, production of silver-plated flatware including Old Company Plate declined.
The manufacturing process for Old Company Plate involved electroplating a base metal (usually nickel silver or copper) with a thin layer of pure silver. The quality of Old Company Plate was considered good for silver-plated items, though not as heavy or durable as sterling silver pieces.
Identifying Old Company Plate
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<span>Identification Guide</span>
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<div class="section-header__body">Properly identifying Old Company Plate is the first step in determining its value. Look for specific markings, pattern names, and manufacturing characteristics.</div>
Hallmarks and Markings
Old Company Plate items are typically marked with:
The words “Old Company Plate” stamped on the back of each piece
Sometimes accompanied by “IS” or “Int. Silver” for International Silver Company
Pattern name (such as “Signature”)
In some cases, a monogram of the original owner
The lettering style is distinctive, and the marking is usually clearly stamped rather than etched or engraved.
Common Patterns
The most valuable and collectible Old Company Plate patterns include:
Signature - The most common and recognizable pattern, featuring clean lines and a subtle floral element
Signature Rose - A variation with rose motifs
Monogrammed Sets - Sets with original monograms can be desirable to collectors seeking pieces with their own initials
Materials and Construction
Identifying Genuine Old Company Plate
Check for these characteristics to confirm authenticity
'Old Company Plate' stamp clearly visible on back of items
Silver plating shows appropriate patina for age
Weight feels substantial (heavier than modern stainless steel)
Pattern details match known Old Company Plate designs
Base metal (usually visible on worn areas) is copper-colored or nickel silver
Factors Affecting Old Company Plate Value
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<span>Value Determinants</span>
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<div class="section-header__body">Several key factors influence the market value of Old Company Plate silverware, from condition to pattern rarity and completeness of sets.</div>
Condition Assessment
The condition of silver-plated items is paramount in determining value:
Excellent condition - Very little wear to the silver plating, no dents or repairs
Good condition - Some wear to the plating, especially on knife blades and tines of forks
Fair condition - Significant wear showing the base metal underneath, possible dents or repairs
Poor condition - Extensive wear, damage, or repairs making pieces primarily useful for crafts
Completeness of Sets
Old Company Plate flatware is most valuable when sold as complete sets:
A basic 4-piece place setting includes dinner fork, salad fork, teaspoon, and dinner knife
Service for 8 (32 pieces) is common and moderately valuable
Service for 12 (48+ pieces) is more desirable
Full sets with serving pieces command premium prices
Pattern Popularity and Rarity
While the Signature pattern is most common, certain patterns or special editions of Old Company Plate can be more valuable:
Patterns with elaborate detailing tend to hold more value
Limited edition or commemorative pieces can be worth more to collectors
Unusual serving pieces (fish servers, berry spoons, etc.) often sell for more than standard flatware
Monograms and Personalization
Contrary to what some might expect:
Monogrammed pieces typically sell for 20-30% less than non-monogrammed pieces
Exception: When the monogram is particularly attractive or matches a potential buyer’s initials
Some collectors specifically seek monogrammed pieces for their historical character
Current Market Values
Old Company Plate Value Ranges
Current market values based on condition and completeness (2024)
Category
Price
Notes
Single Piece (Fork, Spoon, etc.)
$2-$10
Depends on type and condition
Serving Pieces
$10-$25
Meat forks, serving spoons command higher prices
4-Piece Place Setting
$15-$30
Signature pattern in good condition
Service for 8 (32 pieces)
$75-$150
Complete set in original box adds value
Service for 12 (48+ pieces)
$100-$250
Excellent condition with full complement of serving pieces
Large Complete Set (100+ pieces)
$200-$600
Pristine condition with original storage box
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Based on recent sales data, a complete set of Old Company Plate Signature pattern flatware in excellent condition can fetch approximately $100-600, depending on the number of pieces included. Individual serving pieces typically sell for $10-25 each.
According to JustAnswer’s antiques expert, a full set of Old Company Plate flatware in excellent condition has a retail replacement value of approximately $600 on the high end. However, most sets on the secondary market will sell for considerably less.
Where to Buy and Sell Old Company Plate
Finding or selling Old Company Plate silverware requires knowing the right marketplaces:
Live auctions occasionally feature Old Company Plate, such as this 48-piece set
Estate sales in areas with older homes often yield complete sets
Where to Sell
Replacement Services
Companies specializing in discontinued patterns may purchase your pieces
These typically offer lower prices but provide convenient sales options
Direct to Collectors
Online marketplaces allow you to reach buyers directly
Local antique shops or consignment stores can be options for complete sets
Silver Dealers
While silver-plated items have minimal scrap value, some dealers purchase sets for resale
Expect significantly less than retail price when selling to dealers
Caring for Old Company Plate
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<span>Maintenance and Restoration</span>
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<div class="section-header__body">Proper care can significantly affect the long-term value and appearance of Old Company Plate silverware. Learn how to maintain, clean, and store your silver-plated treasures.</div>
Cleaning and Polishing
To maintain the value of Old Company Plate:
Regular cleaning - Wash by hand with mild dish soap and soft cloth
Avoid dishwashers - The harsh detergents and heat can damage silver plating
Gentle polishing - Use silver polish specifically designed for plated items, not sterling
Spot cleaning - Address tarnish when it appears rather than waiting for heavy buildup
Storage Recommendations
Proper storage is crucial for preserving silver plate:
Store in anti-tarnish cloth or flannel rolls designed for silverware
Keep pieces separated to prevent scratching
Avoid rubber bands or materials containing sulfur
Store in a low-humidity environment
Professional Restoration
For valuable sets, professional restoration may be worthwhile:
Re-plating - Completely restores the silver layer but reduces antique value
Dent removal - Can be performed by silversmiths for valuable pieces
Monogram removal - Possible but may leave visible marks and reduce value
Silver Plate vs. Sterling Silver
Silver Content Comparison
Understanding the difference between silver plate and sterling is crucial for valuation:
Sterling silver must contain 92.5% pure silver by weight
Silver plate is only a thin layer of silver over base metal (often copper or nickel silver)
Old Company Plate is silver-plated, not solid silver
The value difference is substantial - sterling typically commands 10-20 times the price of comparable silver plate
This fundamental difference explains why Old Company Plate items, while beautiful and collectible, don’t have the intrinsic metal value of sterling silverware.
Investment Potential and Collectibility
Is Old Company Plate a good investment? Consider these points:
Silver-plated items rarely appreciate significantly in value over time
Complete sets in excellent condition hold value better than incomplete ones
The primary value is in utility and aesthetic appeal rather than investment potential
Collections based on personal enjoyment rather than financial return are most rewarding
Collectors often focus on:
Completing matching sets
Finding rare serving pieces
Acquiring pieces with family or historical significance
Displaying and using these elegant items in their homes
Common Questions About Old Company Plate
Common Questions About Old Company Plate Value
Is Old Company Plate real silver?
No, Old Company Plate is not solid silver. It is silver-plated, meaning it has a thin layer of silver electroplated onto a base metal (usually nickel silver or copper). The actual silver content is minimal compared to sterling silver, which is 92.5% pure silver throughout.
How can I tell if my Old Company Plate is valuable?
Check for these value indicators:
- Condition of the silver plating (minimal wear is best)
- Completeness of the set (more pieces = higher value)
- Presence of rare serving pieces
- Original storage box or chest
- Pattern popularity (Signature pattern is most recognized)
A complete service for 12 in excellent condition with serving pieces can be worth $200-600, while individual pieces typically sell for $2-25 each depending on type and condition.
Does Old Company Plate have any scrap value?
Unlike sterling silver, Old Company Plate has minimal scrap value because the actual silver content is very small. The thin layer of silver plating doesn't provide enough precious metal to make it worthwhile for melting down. The value lies in the items' usability, completeness of sets, and aesthetic appeal rather than metal content.
Where can I sell my Old Company Plate silverware?
Options for selling include:
- Online marketplaces like eBay, Etsy, or Poshmark
- Replacement services like Replacements, Ltd.
- Local antique stores or consignment shops
- Estate sale services (for large complete sets)
Complete sets in good condition typically sell better than individual pieces or incomplete sets.
How do I clean Old Company Plate without damaging it?
Clean gently using:
- Mild dish soap and warm water
- Soft cloth (never abrasive materials)
- Silver polish specifically formulated for plated items (not sterling)
Avoid:
Dishwashers
Harsh chemicals
Excessive rubbing which can wear away the silver plating
Soaking for extended periods
Does monogrammed Old Company Plate have less value?
Generally, yes. Monogrammed silverplate typically sells for 20-30% less than non-monogrammed pieces unless:
1. The monogram matches the potential buyer's initials
2. The monogram is particularly attractive or artistic
3. The piece has historical significance related to the original owner
For everyday collectors, non-monogrammed pieces are typically more desirable and valuable.
External Resources for Old Company Plate Research and Valuation
Helpful Resources for Old Company Plate Collectors
Conclusion: Is Old Company Plate Worth Collecting?
Old Company Plate silverware represents an accessible entry point into collecting vintage tableware. While it doesn’t carry the significant intrinsic value of sterling silver, its attractive designs and historical connection to mid-century American dining make it appealing to many collectors.
The most valuable Old Company Plate items are:
Complete sets with serving pieces
Pieces in excellent condition with minimal wear to the silver plating
Items with original storage boxes or chests
Unusual or rare serving pieces
For those who appreciate vintage dining elegance without the high cost of sterling silver, Old Company Plate offers an attractive alternative that can be both collected and used. Whether inherited as a family heirloom or discovered at an estate sale, these pieces connect us to an era when setting a proper table was an art form in itself.
If you’re considering collecting or selling Old Company Plate, focus on condition, completeness, and presentation rather than expecting significant monetary return. The true value lies in the beauty and craftsmanship of these mid-century American classics.
