saw a set of silverware at a junkshop today

[UnReconstructed]

$60 for the set

should I go back and get it? if so, what do I do with it then?

 

[stag15]

How much did it weigh? If over 6 ounces, then yes.

 

[UnReconstructed]

for the entire set? hell, I don't know... the large spoons were heavy and it was in a nice case. I would imagine that all of it together was more than 6oz but I can't be for certain.

 

[RSLudlum]

was it Sterling silver? Sterling contains at least 92.5% pure silver. Look for markings and make sure it's not just silver-plated.

 

[UnReconstructed]

what kind of markings? like the weight on bullion? There was a name on the spoons but I don't recall seeing anything on the other pieces... they all had the same design. I did look at that.

 

[Zippyjuan]

For $60 it is probably plated.
How can you tell?
http://www.silverqueen.com/AskUs/Silverplated.htm#Sterling

Sterling silver is .925 silver with a .075 additive, usually copper. Sterling made in the USA after approximately the 1850's always has a sterling mark. It may say Sterling. It may be.925 or show the fraction 925/1000. If it does not have this mark it is not sterling. It can also be tested with an acid to determine its content. This should only be done by a professional.

If my silver comes from England, how can I tell if it is sterling?

English sterling silver is marked with a series of four or five small hallmarks. The standing lion with his right front paw raised (The lion passant ) is the most commonly seen sterling quality mark. The other marks indicate the city of origin, the maker, and the year of manufacture. Some of the marks will include the face of the monarch.

 

[stag15]

You will know if it is silver coated by its weight. If it feels light and flimsy, its coated. If it feels very heavy and rugged, its probably sterling. Buy a cheap scale and weigh it, it might be a pretty good deal if you want scrap silver for investment.

 

[Original_Intent]

Look at the base of the blade of the knives. I believe it will say if it is sterling silver or silver plated there.

found this:

Sterling silver is .925 silver with a .075 additive, usually copper. Sterling made in the USA after approximately the 1850's always has a sterling mark. It may say Sterling. It may be.925 or show the fraction 925/1000. If it does not have this mark it is not sterling. It can also be tested with an acid to determine its content. This should only be done by a professional.

 

[RSLudlum]

There's usually a "Sterling" stamp or a number like 90, 925, etc.

 

[angelatc]

If it is sterling silver, it's usually proudly marked as such. I think every piece of real silver I've seen has had a hallmark of some sort on it.

http://www.925-1000.com/

Try searching eBay to see if you can recognize the pattern.

 

[UnReconstructed]

thanks for the replies.

I'll post back in this thread tomorrow and let ya know what I find out

 

[georgiapeach]

If it isn't plated, this site might help you determine it's value. Also, I am kind of curious what you found.

http://www.beverlybremer.com/