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 affects the value of Silver Plated Pheasant Salt and Pepper Shakers?

• 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.