Preliminary identification

Mid-Century Silverplated Coaster Set with Master Coaster Holder, c.1950s

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

This is a charming seven-piece entertaining set featuring six individual drink coasters and one larger footed master coaster that acts as a base. Each piece is decorated with an intricate, machine-engraved baroque-style scrollwork border that catches the light beautifully.

Story

Post-war cocktail culture of the 1950s demanded elegant, durable barware for home entertaining. These coasters protected polished mahogany tables from condensation while adding a touch of formal, traditional shine to casual living rooms.

Maker / Origin

While unsigned, sets like this were popular offerings from prominent mid-century silverplate manufacturers such as Leonard, Sheridan, or Oneida. These companies specialized in bringing the look of luxury sterling silver into the average post-war household at an accessible price point.

Condition & Value

The coasters show a warm, golden-toned patina, which suggests some wear to the silver plating, exposing the underlying brass or base metal (often called 'bleeding'). There are minor surface scratches consistent with use. While some collectors love this warm, aged look, heavy plating wear generally keeps the value modest.

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.