Is My Silver Worth Money? Sterling vs. Plate Value

Old silver is one of the more valuable things to turn up in an estate — but only if it's real sterling, not plate. Sterling has value from both its precious-metal content and, for good makers, its collector value; silverplate (a thin silver coating over base metal) is worth very little. Here's how to tell the difference and value what you have.

Sterling vs. silverplate

Sterling silver is 92.5% silver and is usually stamped "Sterling," "925," or a national hallmark. It has intrinsic metal value plus collector value. Silverplate is marked things like "EP," "EPNS," "silver on copper," or a brand with no purity mark — it's base metal with a thin silver layer and carries little value beyond the decorative. Checking the marks is the first and most important step.

What drives sterling's value

Weight and metal content set a floor (sterling tracks the silver market). Above that, maker and pattern matter — pieces by prestigious silversmiths and sought-after flatware patterns sell well above melt. Condition and completeness count too: a full, matched flatware set or an intact tea service beats odd pieces, and monograms and damage reduce value. See the general framework in valuing antiques.

What tends to be valuable

Marked sterling flatware sets, hollowware (tea services, bowls, candlesticks) by good makers, and antique or hand-wrought pieces. Coin silver (older American, ~90%) also has value. Silverplate, however common and pretty, is usually worth little.

How to check and sell

Find the marks (on the back of flatware, the base of hollowware), weigh sterling pieces, and look up sold prices for the maker and pattern — not asking prices. For quantity or fine pieces, get an appraisal before selling, and never sell marked sterling for scrap without confirming it doesn't have higher value as-is. Selling options are covered in where to sell antiques.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if my silver is real sterling?

Look for a "Sterling," "925," or hallmark stamp. Marks like "EP," "EPNS," or "silver on copper" indicate silverplate, which is base metal with a thin coating and worth little. The stamp is the quickest test.

Is silverplate worth anything?

Usually very little — it's base metal with a thin silver layer, so it lacks the precious-metal value of sterling. A few decorative or branded pieces have modest resale value, but most silverplate is worth far less than people expect.

Should I polish silver before selling it?

Light, gentle cleaning is fine, but avoid aggressive over-polishing, which wears detail and can reduce value on collectible pieces. When in doubt, leave patina alone and let a dealer advise.

Have silver to value? Find a local antique dealer who can examine it.