Victorian Quadruple Plate Footed Card Tray

Story

Victorian social etiquette was a minefield, and this tray was your shield. In the 1890s, a visitor would leave their calling card here; if the tray was empty, they were the first to arrive, a subtle game of social standing.

Maker / Origin

While the specific manufacturer's name is partially obscured, the 'MFG CO' and 'Quadruple Plate' stamps are synonymous with the Connecticut River Valley silver boom. Companies like Meriden Britannia transformed silver from a royal luxury into an attainable dream for the growing American middle class.

Condition & Value

The tray shows significant tarnish and some 'bleeding' where the base metal is beginning to show through the silver plate. There is also visible surface pitting, which is common for Victorian plate but does keep the value in the decorative range. Condition reduces value by roughly 40%.