Gorham Silver Value & Price Guide

Gorham Silver stands as a cornerstone of American craftsmanship, renowned for its exquisite sterling flatware and ornate holloware. From the iconic Chantilly pattern to seasonal snowflake ornaments, these pieces represent a legacy of luxury that has graced American tables for nearly two centuries.

Price Range: $65 - $80 based on recent sales

History of Gorham Silver

Founded in 1831 by Jabez Gorham in Providence, Rhode Island, the company began by producing small silver items like spoons and jewelry. Under the leadership of Jabez's son, John Gorham, the firm embraced industrial innovation and expanded its reach, eventually becoming one of the largest silver manufacturers in the world. Gorham's reputation for excellence was solidified when it was chosen to create official services for the White House, including pieces for Mary Todd Lincoln and Edith Wilson. Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Gorham led the industry in design, introducing the world-famous Chantilly pattern in 1895. The company successfully navigated changing tastes by transitioning from the highly decorative Victorian styles to the streamlined aesthetics of the Art Deco period and mid-century modernism. Today, Gorham remains a highly collected brand, valued both for its historical significance and its enduring commitment to quality silver production.

Value Factors for Gorham Silver

The typical price range for Gorham Silver is $65 - $80 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Metal Purity: Sterling silver items command significantly higher prices than silver-plated or soldered pieces due to their intrinsic precious metal content.
• Pattern Popularity: Highly sought-after patterns like Chantilly, Strasbourg, or Buttercup maintain higher resale values compared to more obscure or discontinued designs.
• Weight and Scale: The physical weight of the silver in troy ounces is a primary driver for the value of large items like water pitchers, candelabras, and full flatware sets.
• Historical Provenance and Age: Early 19th-century pieces or items with documented historical significance often fetch premiums from specialized collectors.

Tips for Buying Gorham Silver

• Verify the presence of the Gorham hallmark, which typically features a lion, an anchor, and a capital letter G to ensure authenticity.
• Distinguish between 'Sterling' and 'Silver Soldered' or 'Silver Plate,' as the metal purity significantly impacts the item's market value and long-term durability.
• Inspect the condition of intricate patterns like Chantilly or Lady Anne for signs of over-polishing, which can wear down the fine details of the silver.
• Look for date marks, often represented by small symbols like umbrellas or anchors, which can help pinpoint the exact year of production for antique pieces.

Items in This Collection

• Gorham Sterling Silver Water Pitcher
• Gorham Silver-Plated Tea Set
• Gorham Paul Revere Bowl
• Gorham Sterling Silver Spoons
• Gorham Silver Plate Bowl
• Gorham Snowflake Ornament
• Gorham Lady Anne Pitcher
• Gorham Lady Anne Vase
• Gorham Sterling Silver Vanity Set
• Gorham Sterling Silver Candle Snuffer
• Gorham Sterling Silver Snowflake Christmas Ornament
• Gorham Sterling Silver Bowl
• Gorham Sterling Silver Snowflake Ornament
• Gorham Silver Plated Bowl
• Gorham Chantilly Sterling Silver Candelabra
• Gorham Silver Paul Revere Bowl
• Gorham Sterling Dresser Set
• Gorham Sterling Silver Spoon
• Gorham Sterling Silver Flatware Set
• Gorham Silver Soldered Teapot