Although there are many types of desirable antiques and precious metals on the market, Tiffany Silver is undoubtedly one of the most coveted kinds. But what exactlyisthis type of silver and why is it so in-demand? Let's take a closer look.
What is Tiffany Silver?
If you're a fan of Audrey Hepburn, classic New York City institutions, or fine jewelry, you're probably familiar with Tiffany and Co. Tiffany has been around since 1837 and was originally a store for stationary and other fancy goods. Since then, it's evolved into one of the most well-known silver purveyors around.
Tiffany Sterling refers to holloware, flatware, and all kinds of sterling silver goods made by Tiffany and Co. While most 19th and 20th century sterling silver items are marked with the number "925," Tiffany and Co. was actually responsible for popularizing the use of that standard in the United States. It's considered to be one of the most sought-after types of silver around.
Is This Sterling Silver Valuable?
Absolutely. Tiffany products are often among the most highly prized antique sterling silver goods. Silver dealers have been known to sell flatware sets, jewelry, platters, vases, and all kinds of items bearing the Tiffany stamp of approval for several thousand dollars (and sometimes more). Tiffany even made a sterling silver coffee can that sold for $1,500. Whether they're newly made or from the early 1900s, this type of silver is among the best of the best -- and tends to fetch a good price, as long as it's in good condition.
How Do I Sell My Silver?
There are many people who are interested in selling or buying Tiffany Silver. Typically, it's a good idea to work with a reputable antique or silver buyer to assess the value of a given piece and to ensure you're getting a fair price for your valuables.
At Nelson and Nelson, we make it easy for you to sell your Tiffany Sterling and other antique sterling silver pieces through appointment or email. With over 40 years in the business, we know our silver. And because we vow never to scrap silver, you can sell your silver with the peace of mind that it will soon find a loving home. For more information, please contact us today.
FAQs
It is typically made from a number of different metals including copper, nickel, and zinc. The value of antique silver can vary depending on the type, rarity, and age. Antique silver can range in price from $5 for a common item to over $1 million for a rare item.
Does anyone buy old silver? ›
Cash For Gold USA is a reputable online buyer of precious metals like silver, gold, platinum, and palladium. We've been in the precious metal recycling business for years, and have bought and sold more than $150 million in precious metals since our inception in 2005.
How do you appraise antique silverware? ›
Another way of learning the current market value of your pieces is to take them to an appraiser. These experts will be able to give you a good idea of what your personal silver flatware is worth. They will take into account any damage or missing pieces your set may have in order to give you the most accurate estimate.
What is the difference between sterling silver and English silver? ›
Britannia Silver is an alloy which has 95.84 % of silver and rest 4.16% of other metals, mainly copper. It is expensive and less harder than sterling silver therefore it is not used for making jewelry. Sterling silver has 92.5% of silver and 7.5% of other metals, which make it a perfect choice for making jewelry.
How do I know if my silverware is valuable? ›
Given the malleability of pure silver and difficulty crafting any meaningful object, it could be impossible to have 100% pure silver. Therefore, sterling silver is the most valuable you'll find. You can know sterling silver by checking the '925' hallmark, which means that the silver in it is 925 parts in 1,000.
What is the best way to sell old silverware? ›
One is by checking at pawn shops and online stores and asking them if they would be interested in buying them from you. Another way is by taking the pieces to appraisers or places that buy scrap metal. Once you know their value, then determine if it is worth your energy to sell these items.
How much can I sell 1 oz of silver for? ›
Live Metal Spot Price (24hrs) Jun 07, 2024 at 20:38 EST
| Silver Spot Prices | Today | Change |
|---|
| Silver Price Per Ounce | $29.37 | -2.07 |
| Silver Price Per Gram | $0.94 | -0.07 |
| Silver Price Per Kilo | $944.27 | -66.55 |
Count your blessings, then consider your options:
- Keep it: Given the cost to buy sterling new or used, be grateful you have this family treasure. ...
- Sell it: That said, if you have a set of silver you're never going to use, that no one in your family wants, and that has no sentimental value, consider selling it.
If it's sterling silver, it's worth quite a bit. If it's silver-plated flatware, it may not be worth much at all. In the past, the majority of silverware was made out of sterling silver. Sterling silver is 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals (usually copper).
Is a silverplate worth anything? ›
Is silver plate worth anything? Silver plate cannot be melted down and re-sold as sterling silver can, which makes it less valuable than sterling silver. However, there is value in silver plated items which comes less from the value of the silver content than the age, maker and quality of the item.
Get your items appraised by a professional at an antiques store. It might be tempting to give antique silver a clean to make it gleam, but this can actually lower the value of your pieces and potentially damage it. You don't always have to go with the first buyer - ask around and see who will offer the best price.
Does real silver stick to a magnet? ›
Most precious metals—like gold and copper—are nonmagnetic, and silver is no exception. Grab some magnets and see if they are drawn to your object. "Silver is not noticeably magnetic, and exhibits only weak magnetic effects, unlike iron, nickel, cobalt, and the like," says Martin.
Why is 925 silver so cheap? ›
Since sterling silver has a lower percentage of silver than pure silver, sterling silver is less expensive. Of the three types of metals, it's typically the least expensive choice. You'll also find more jewelry options in sterling silver since it's a more accessible material to mold into different shapes.
What does 925 mean on silver? ›
If you've ever come across the number “925” on your silver jewelry, it is an indication that it is made of sterling silver. The number 925 represents the purity level of the silver used in the jewelry, which is 92.5%. This hallmark guarantees that you're getting the real thing and not a cheap imitation.
Although there are many types of desirable antiques and precious metals on the market, Tiffany Silver is undoubtedly one of the most coveted kinds. But what exactlyisthis type of silver and why is it so in-demand? Let's take a closer look.