Preliminary identification

Hand & Hammer Sterling Silver Columbus Quincentenary Ornament Pair (1992)

Photo reference

4 uploaded photos

Overview

A boxed pair of sterling silver openwork commemorative Christmas ornaments crafted in 1992 for the 500th anniversary of Christopher Columbus's voyage.

Story

Struck in 1992 to mark 500 years since the 1492 Atlantic crossing, these ornaments showcase American master silversmithing made exclusively for premier luxury jewelers Shreve, Crump & Low and J.E. Caldwell.

Maker / Origin

Hand & Hammer Silversmiths was founded by William deMatteo, who served for decades as the resident master silversmith at Colonial Williamsburg. His son, Chip deMatteo, carried forward the family tradition of fine hand-cast and die-struck silver, making ornaments, jewelry, and tableware revered by American collectors.

Condition & Value

Both ornaments appear to be in excellent, lightly used condition with original red suspension ribbons intact and gentle natural surface patina. The original branded Hand & Hammer box with retailer label, felt insert, and informational insert cards are well preserved, which adds meaningful appeal for collectors.

Full Research

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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.