Empire Pewter Candlesticks Value Guide

Produced by the Empire Silver Company of Brooklyn, these mid-century candlesticks are prized for their distinctive pierced or reticulated galleries. They represent a successful 20th-century effort to bring the elegant silhouettes of high-end sterling silver to the American middle class using durable, weighted pewter.

What affects the value of Empire Pewter Candlesticks?

• Condition of the reticulated gallery, as the delicate pierced metal can easily bend or break.
• Presence of the original manufacturer's marks on the base which confirms the 1946-founded Brooklyn origin.
• Surface integrity, specifically looking for deep scratches or 'pewter disease' (oxidation) that affects the alloy's luster.
• Completeness of the pair, as single candlesticks significantly reduce the market value compared to a matched set.

How to Identify Empire Pewter Candlesticks?

• Check the underside for the 'Empire' hallmark, often accompanied by 'Pewter' and 'Weighted' stamps.
• Look for the signature reticulated or 'pierced' gallery design surrounding the candle socket.
• Verify the weight; these pieces feature a reinforced base to provide stability similar to sterling silver holloware.
• Confirm the matte or soft satin finish characteristic of mid-century American pewter alloys.

History of Empire Pewter Candlesticks

The Empire Silver Company was founded in Brooklyn, New York, in 1946. They became widely known for producing accessible luxury items, particularly pewter and sterling silver holloware. Pewter, an alloy consisting primarily of tin, has been used for centuries, but Empire helped modernize its appeal in the mid-20th century by creating durable, weighted pieces that mimicked the classic silhouettes of high-end sterling silver at a more affordable price point.