The type of silver used to make your antique, the quality of the item, and how well it’s been cared for are all determining factors when it comes down to deciding what a silver antique is worth. However, when you’re trying to sell antique silver, be prepared that any company that you work with likely will try to pay for your silver based on weight. That is because they are only willing to pay the price they could get back if the item had to be melted down and sold in its purest form. However, if you go to a professional estate dealer in Fort Myers, like our staff at Judy’s Jewelry, we will determine the value of the item based on a wide variety of different aspects.
What do we look for when evaluating a silver antique?
- These are stamps or distinctive markings that indicate the purity of the silver, the manufacturer, the date it was made, or the country or region of origin. If an item is very old and rather rare, it may hold more value. On the other hand, popular brands can often make silver heirlooms more popular even if it was mass-produced.
- Its area of origin. Silver produces in specific regions of the world is often considered more valuable.
- Its appearance. Certain aesthetics can increase the value of a silver antique, such as the presence of specific floral patterns or ornate scroll works can be valuable even if the item doesn’t have a particular maker’s mark. For example, etched silver, which is more commonly indicative of Mexican or Native American antiques, can increase the value. Classic hyper-stylized pieces that have bold designs from Renaissance, Victorian, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Mid Century, and Modernist styles can greatly increase the value of an item.
- What item is it? Many families possess, purchase, or were gifted high-quality sterling silverware sets. While these make beautiful keepsakes, the widespread availability of silverware means it is less valuable than other types of antique silver collectibles.
The Wide Array of Silver Antiques
Antiques and collectibles can come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but when talking about silver or silver-plated keepsakes, there are certain items that are more likely to be made of silver. As mentioned, silverware is the most common: forks, knives, and spoons. That’s just the tip of the iceberg. Keep an eye out for any of the following whether you’re perusing a yard sale, an auction, or just cleaning out an old family attic:
- Silver Flatware (pie servers, shrimp forks, corn holders)
- Ice Buckets
- Warmer Trays
- Wine Coolers and/or Openers
- Toothpick Holders
- Butter Dishes
- Cake Plates
- Serving Dishes
- Napkin Rings and Holders
- Spittoons
- Ash Trays
- Trinket Boxes
- Jewelry Boxes
- Mirrors
- Coasters
- Cups
- Vases
- Plates
- Bowls
- Flour Canisters
- Coffee Storers
- Salt and Pepper Shakers
- Pitchers
- Sewing Accessories (pincushions, thimbles, etc.)
- Shoe Button Hooks
- Decorative Door Knockers
- Candelabras
- Bells
- Candle Sticks
- Candle Snuffers
- Vanity Trays
- Perfume Bottles
- Lipstick Holders
- Cigarette Cases
- Calling Card Dispensers
- Wallet Clips
- Picture Frames
- Oil, Vinegar, and/or Creamer Dishes
- Fruit Hangers
- Urns
- Hair Combs
- Match Holders
- Teapots and Tea Sets
- Mortars and Pestles
We are SW Florida’s biggest buyers of vintage and antique items — silver antiques, but also jewelry, military artifacts, other precious metals, toys, and so much more. Contact Sal Lanzieri at Judy’s Antique and Estate Jewelry today and schedule an in-shop appointment to bring your items in for an honest appraisal. You can reach us by phone at (239) 481-9600 or online here.
