How to Know if Your Old Silverware Is Worth Selling (Hint: It Might Be)

That dusty set of silver forks, knives, and spoons sitting in your dining room hutch could be worth more than you think.

Many people inherit or stumble upon old flatware and assume it’s either plated or purely sentimental. But the truth is, real silverware — especially sterling — can hold significant value, even if it’s tarnished, mismatched, or out of style.

So, how do you know if it’s worth selling?

Step 1: Check for Sterling Marks

The easiest way to tell if your flatware is made of real silver is to look for hallmarks. These may be stamped on the underside of spoons or the handles of knives and forks. Common sterling silver markings include:

• “925” – 92.5% silver content (the standard for sterling)

• “Sterling” or “Sterling Silver”

• Certain symbols (like a lion passant on British silver)

If you see markings like “EPNS” (Electroplated Nickel Silver), “IS” (International Silver), or simply “silverplate,” the item is not sterling silver — it’s silver-plated. That’s a critical difference.

Not All “Silver” is Created Equal: Sterling vs. Silver-Plated

Silver-plated flatware contains very little actual silver. It’s typically made of a base metal (like brass or nickel) with a thin layer of silver coating. Unfortunately, that thin coating has almost no melt value.

Most reputable buyers — including us — do not purchase silver-plated flatware, simply because there isn’t enough silver in it to make it valuable.

Sterling silver, on the other hand, has consistent and measurable silver content, which is why it’s priced by weight.

Step 2: Weigh the Pieces

Sterling silver is valued by weight — so the heavier the set, the more it's worth. Just keep in mind:

• Knife blades and handles often contain non-silver fillers

• Serving pieces tend to be heavier and may be solid silver

• A 6-piece sterling set can often fetch hundreds of dollars, depending on weight and brand

If you’re unsure what’s sterling vs. plated, a reputable buyer can quickly test and evaluate the items for you.

Step 3: Consider the Brand and Pattern

Some antique or vintage flatware patterns are collectible, and brands like Tiffany & Co., Gorham, Wallace, and Reed & Barton may carry added value beyond melt weight.

You don’t need a full set to sell — even individual forks, spoons, or servers can be worth something if they’re sterling.

Where to Sell Sterling Silverware in New Jersey

At American Gold & Diamond Buyers, we buy sterling silver flatware, trays, candlesticks, and more — whether it’s pristine, tarnished, or inherited and incomplete.

We do not purchase silver-plated items, but we’re happy to help you evaluate what you have.

Stop by any of our New Jersey locations for a quick, no-pressure appraisal. We’ll weigh and test your pieces in front of you and explain exactly what you’re holding.

Learn more about selling silver with us.

Final Thought

Just because it looks like silver doesn’t mean it’s worth silver prices — but you won’t know until you check. Before you give away or overlook old flatware, get it evaluated.

You might be holding onto something far more valuable than you think.