posted on October 28, 2002 10:07:33 AM new
I purchased a beautiful Coffee/Tea Service at an estate sale yesterday. It is marked Reed & Barton, now I know who they are, but there is the number 5100 also stamped in the base just below the R&B logo. Can anyone tell me what this stands for? I would put in a picture if someone would teach me how to do it.
[ edited by sanmar on Oct 28, 2002 11:46 AM ]
[ edited by sanmar on Oct 29, 2002 10:56 AM ]
posted on October 28, 2002 11:55:13 AM new
The 5100 is a style or shape number, just like it might be a mold number when talking about pottery.
It isn't a designation of metal content.
If your item is marked in script Reed & Barton, it is of relatively recent manufacture. Moreover, unless it is also marked Sterling or Coin, it is 99% certain the piece is silverplate.
posted on October 28, 2002 02:07:33 PM new
Thanks Fluffy. I was sure it was plate. All 4 pieces have this number stamped on the bottom. The Reed & Barton is in small block letters. I was told that this set is about 75 yrs. old. If my fingers last, it will be beautiful again. I have one piece done & it is in MINT condition. Not like a lot of older services that have scratch marks & dimples.
