What we buy
- Flatware: complete sets or partial. Knives, forks, spoons, serving pieces
- Tea sets and hollowware: teapots, trays, pitchers, bowls, candlesticks
- Anything marked .925, Sterling, 800, 835 or with maker's hallmarks (Birks, Roden, international makers)
- Not sure it's sterling? Many pieces are silver-plate, which we'll identify for free from your photos before you ship anything
Sterling vs. silver plate, in one minute
Sterling silver is solid silver alloy (92.5% pure) and is worth its weight on the metals market. Silver plate is a thin coating over base metal and has little melt value. The clue is usually in the marks: “.925” or “Sterling” means solid; “EPNS”, “silver plate” or “A1” means plated. Close-up photos of the marks are the single most useful thing you can send us.
Full sets welcome
A complete flatware service for twelve can weigh several kilograms; these are some of the most valuable lots we see. If a full set or estate cabinet feels like too much to ship, ask about an in-person visit on the assessment form, and if you're within about two hours of Napanee we can often come to you.
Common questions
Do knives count?
Knife handles are usually filled and blades are steel, so knives carry less silver than forks and spoons. They still count; we itemize them separately and show you.
Do you pay more for name makers?
Sometimes, yes. Pieces by desirable makers can be worth more than melt, and we pay whichever is higher.