Silver Plated Pheasant Salt and Pepper Shakers Value Guide

These mid-century silver-plated pheasant shakers represent a classic post-war dining trend that brought hunting motifs into the suburban home. Produced in the United Kingdom between 1950 and 1960, these figural pieces allowed middle-class families to emulate the high-end solid silver aesthetics of German Hanau craftsmanship.

What Is Silver Plated Pheasant Salt and Pepper Shakers Worth?

The typical price range for Silver Plated Pheasant Salt and Pepper Shakers is $35 - $40 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The integrity of the silver plating, as heavy polishing can reveal the duller spelter underneath.
• The presence and condition of the original tail feathers, which are prone to bending or snapping.
• Completeness of the pair, as individual birds are significantly less valuable than a matched set.
• The clarity of the feather detailing and facial features in the metal casting.

How to Identify Silver Plated Pheasant Salt and Pepper Shakers?

• Look for the distinctive long-tailed pheasant silhouette typical of 1950s UK manufacturing.
• Check for a spelter base metal visible beneath the silver plating in areas of heavy wear.
• Verify the presence of small perforated holes on the heads or backs for dispensing salt and pepper.
• Examine the underside for original plastic or cork stoppers used to seal the spice chambers.

History of Silver Plated Pheasant Salt and Pepper Shakers

Figural bird shakers, particularly pheasants, became a staple of mid-century dining room decor. Often produced in silver plate or pewter, these sets were popular wedding gifts in the 1950s and 60s, reflecting a cultural fascination with nature and hunting motifs during the post-war era. While high-end solid silver versions exist from German makers like Hanau, the mass-produced silver-plated versions allowed middle-class families to add a touch of formality to their tables.