All questions / Jewelry, watches and silver

Is silver plated silverware worth anything?

Silver plate is a thin layer over another metal, so it carries very little silver. Most plated flatware sells for a few dollars per piece or by the lot; it has almost no scrap value.

What to look for

Check what applies to yours:

• Marks like EPNS, SILVER PLATE or QUADRUPLE PLATE mean plated, not solid silver.
• Complete sets in a popular pattern, in their original wooden box.
• Little wear: the base metal showing through lowers the price.

Before you sell

• Compare with items that actually sold, not only with asking prices.
• Take clear photos in daylight: front, back, marks and any damage.
• Do not clean coins, and do not repaint or polish old items: it often lowers the value.
• For anything that might be valuable, get an opinion from a certified appraiser or a specialist dealer.