Collecting antique silver is a rewarding hobby in many ways. You can learn a lot about history and build a beautiful collection you’ll never tire of admiring. And, with the right guidance and skill, your collection of antique silver will likely rise in value. Before you begin silver buying, consider these three simple tips to make the most of your new finds and purchases.

Beginner’s Tips for Antique Silver Buying

1. Choose a Focus

Many silver collectors choose to focus on collecting a specific kind of object so that they aren’t acquiring random pieces. Focus creates cohesion, which is a desirable quality of any collection. Popular options include collecting pieces from the same era (art deco, art nouveau, or midcentury modern), from a specific manufacturer (Wallace or Unger Brothers, say), with a common decorative motif (flowers or animals), or of a particular functional type (fish forks or serving platters).

2. Recognize Sterling versus Silver Plate

Sterling silver from the 19th and 20th century is marked with the word “sterling” or with the number “925,”  because sterling silver is 92.5% solid silver. Silver plate—a base metal object coated with a thin layer of silver—is worth less. Silver plate may be stamped “EPNS,” “electroplate,” or “silverplate.”

3. Look for a Maker’s Mark

A maker’s mark, also called a hallmark, is valuable in the silver buying field. You can usually locate a maker’s mark, which tells you the name of the manufacturer, on the backside or underside of an object. The mark may tell you when and where the object was made as well. Consult the Online Encyclopedia of Silver Marks, Hallmarks, and Makers’ Marks to identify any mark you don’t recognize.

When you’re ready to start collecting antique silver, contact Forsythe’s Antiques & Fine Art in Russellville, OH. Frank Forsythe and his team have more than 125 years of combined experience in purchasing and selling antiques. Silver buying is a particular focus of the business. They will gladly share their expertise with you. See what they have to offer by visiting then online, or call (513) 791-2323 for assistance.