International Silver Company Vanity Set Value Guide

This International Silver Company vanity set is a classic example of mid-century Americana, designed to bring Victorian-era opulence to the 1960s-1980s dressing table. As products of the historic Meriden, Connecticut conglomerate, these sets remain popular collectibles due to their intricate floral repousse styling and status as traditional bridal gifts.

What affects the value of International Silver Company Vanity Set?

• Completeness of the 4-piece set, including the hand mirror, hairbrush, comb, and mirrored tray.
• Condition of the silver plating, specifically looking for signs of 'bleeding' where the base metal shows through the silver.
• The clarity of the mirror glass and the presence of all synthetic bristles in the hairbrush.
• Originality of the components, as later sets may include imported parts that differ slightly in weight and finish.

How to Identify International Silver Company Vanity Set?

• Look for the 'International Silver Company' or 'IS' maker's mark typically stamped on the handle of the mirror or the edge of the tray.
• Identify the floral repousse pattern, which features raised botanical motifs characteristic of the company's later production years.
• Check the comb and brush bristles; authentic sets from this era often utilize a mix of silver-plated frames with plastic or synthetic components.
• Examine the tray surface for the specific mirrored glass insert paired with an ornate silver-plated rim.

History of International Silver Company Vanity Set

Produced by the International Silver Company, which was formed in 1898 in Meriden, Connecticut, by the merger of several silver manufacturers. These sets were popular mid-century bridal and holiday gifts, designed to emulate the opulent Victorian aesthetic. This specific set features the floral repousse style common in the later production years when manufacturing moved to include imported components.