International Silver Gold-Plated/Vermeil Flatware Identification Stamp
Gold-Plated Flatware or Hollowware Component · Yellow Gold finish often used for vermeil (gold over silver) or gold-electroplated dining sets.
Purity: Likely thin 24K gold flash or gold electroplate (GE) over base metal or sterling silver. It does not appear to be solid gold; the absence of a karat stamp like 14K or 18K suggests a plating.
Type
Gold-Plated Flatware or Hollowware Component
Purity
Likely thin 24K gold flash or gold electroplate (GE) over base metal or sterling silver. It does not appear to be solid gold; the absence of a karat stamp like 14K or 18K suggests a plating.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold finish often used for vermeil (gold over silver) or gold-electroplated dining sets.
Weight
Cannot be determined from the close-up image of the stamp, but the base material constitutes the majority of the weight.
Description
An identification mark found on gold-toned tableware or collector's items produced by the International Silver Company. The logo features a stylized shield with the 'IS' initials, surrounded by baroque scrollwork, indicating a piece intended for formal dining or decorative display.
Key Features
Distinguished by the 'IS' initials which identify the maker. The shield is a hallmark of the company's mid-range to premium plated lines.
Color & Finish
Brass-toned yellow gold with a satin-to-brushed surface finish. Visible linear texture suggests industrial graining or directional polishing prior to plating.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Prominent 'IS' (International Silver) crown-and-shield logo inside an ornate cartouche, accompanied by a registered trademark 'R' symbol. Note the absence of a fineness mark (e.g., .925 or 10K).
Dimensions Estimate
The hallmark itself is approximately 5mm to 8mm in height. Typically found on full-sized utensils or serving trays.
Gemstones & Inlays
None present. The item features decorative metal stamping/embossing.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; this is a fixed part of a solid metal object (likely the handle of a spoon, fork, or base of a tray).
Chain & Links
Not applicable; the structure is a solid metal sheet or cast handle.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-stamped logo with high-pressure die. The detail in the shield is sharp, suggesting industrial high-volume production rather than hand-engraving.
Authentication Indicators
The 'R' symbol indicates a modern registered trademark. Genuine International Silver logo is clean and consistently struck. Lack of 'Sterling' or Karat marks strongly indicates a gold-plated base metal.
Origin & Maker
USA; International Silver Company (merged from many smaller silver makers in Meriden, Connecticut).
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century to Contemporary. This specific International Silver mark was widely used from the 1950s through the late 20th century.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1980 based on the crispness of the registered trademark symbol and the style of the cartouche.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war American shift toward 'Gold Electroplated' (GEP) wares, which allowed middle-class families to own gold-toned dining sets that mimicked the look of solid gold at a fraction of the cost.
Condition Notes
Fair-to-Good. Significant surface scratching and 'pitting' are visible in the close-up, suggesting the gold plating is thin or has been subjected to abrasive cleaning.
Value Estimate
Primarily decorative or utility value. The gold content is negligible (melt value is near zero). Typical resale value for a single flatware piece is $5-$15 USD.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid abrasive polishes or ultrasonic cleaning, which will strip the gold layer. Use only soft cloths and mild soap. Do not put in a dishwasher.
Similar Items
Oneida Gold-Plated flatware (often marked 'Gold Electroplate') or Christofle Vermeil (which would be marked with '925' and a bee/scales hallmark).
Interesting Facts
The International Silver Company was once the largest manufacturer of silverware in the world and produced many of the patterns used in US households during the 'Golden Age' of formal entertaining.