Is Sterling Silverware Worth Any Money Nowadays?

Sterling silverware—flatware and serving pieces made of 92.5% pure silver—has long been a staple of fine dining and formal entertaining. Today, many vintage and antique sterling sets hold significant monetary and collector value, especially those made by top manufacturers or featuring ornate, discontinued patterns. Is there a market for sterling silverware? One aspect of sterling silverware collecting that many people are unaware of is the potential monetary value of certain pieces. The market for sterling flatware remains strong, especially for well-known patterns by makers like Gorham, Tiffany & Co., Wallace, and Towle. While prices for silver have an influence, collector demand is driven by age, pattern rarity, completeness of the set, and the condition of the silverware.

The Market For Sterling Silverware

The market for sterling silverware includes collectors, interior designers, silver dealers, and people seeking heirloom-quality tableware. Demand is strongest for "Mint Condition" sets or individual serving pieces with minimal wear, original boxes, or matching patterns. Full sets with all place settings and original cases can bring premium prices. Online auctions, antique stores, and estate sales are common venues for buying and selling.

Factors Affecting Price

Maker and pattern have a huge impact on value. Tiffany’s “Chrysanthemum,” Wallace’s “Grand Baroque,” and Gorham’s “Strasbourg” are examples of high-value patterns. Condition is equally important—deep scratches, dents, or monograms can reduce desirability. Completeness plays a big role, with full sets (usually 6 to 12 place settings) including forks, knives, spoons, and serving utensils valued higher than mixed or partial sets. Silver weight is also considered, but artistic and brand value often outweigh scrap value.

Buying and Selling Sterling Silverware

For those interested in buying and selling sterling silverware, identifying the maker’s mark and pattern name is key. Pieces should be stamped with “Sterling” or “925.” Sellers should polish the silver lightly to present it well but avoid over-cleaning that may remove patina. Buyers often seek pattern-matching or replacement pieces, and sellers can often find strong interest through eBay, Replacements.com, or local antique shops.

Who Buys Sterling Silverware Today?

Collectors, vintage décor enthusiasts, and those furnishing traditional homes make up the majority of today’s sterling silverware buyers. High-end buyers search for ornate, discontinued patterns or full boxed sets. Many modern buyers also repurpose antique silverware into jewelry, décor, or upcycled art, adding another dimension to its resale potential. Not all sterling silverware has monetary value, but some pieces remain highly sought after—especially rare patterns, complete boxed sets, and sterling from major makers like Tiffany, Gorham, and Wallace.

Top 5 Sterling Silverware Sets to Hunt For

1. Tiffany & Co. Chrysanthemum – Lavish and heavily decorated, valued at $5,000–$15,000+ per full set.


2. Wallace Grand Baroque – Iconic and collectible, valued at $3,000–$10,000 for a full set.


3. Gorham Strasbourg – Elegant floral pattern, valued at $2,000–$6,000.


4. Towle Old Master – Classic pattern, valued at $1,500–$4,000 per full set.


5. Reed & Barton Francis I – Bold and ornate, valued at $3,500–$8,000 depending on size and condition.

Learn More About The Value of Your Sterling Silverware

iGuide’s appraisal service is a good way to discover the value of your sterling silverware. Learn more.