Collection spotlight · Southern Historian’s Collection
American coin silver, 1830s–1860s
Presentation pitchers, urns, trays and centerpieces by the leading American silversmiths of the 1830s to 1860s, led by an 1839 Ball, Tompkins & Black water pitcher.
10 lots
In the auction
Click any lot for full photos, condition notes and bidding on LiveAuctioneers.
Lot 131View lot →
Lot 127View lot →
Lot 138View lot →
Lot 121View lot →
Lot 142View lot →
Lot 122View lot →
Lot 132View lot →
Lot 133View lot →
Lot 137View lot →
Lot 136View lot →What is coin silver?
Before about 1860, most American silver was made from melted coins, at roughly 90% purity. This is a little lower than the 92.5% sterling standard adopted later. Pieces are marked by the maker or retailer rather than with a sterling stamp.
This group includes work marked by Ball, Tompkins & Black of New York, Bailey & Co. of Philadelphia, Haddock & Andrews and Jones, Ball & Poor of Boston, and William Gale & Son. It is a rare chance to buy a full table of documented early American silver from one collection.
These lots are offered in The Southern Historian’s Collection (Sunday, November 8). Bidding is online at LiveAuctioneers, with pickup in Leeds, Alabama or shipping.
FAQ
Bidding questions
Straight answers. For anything else, call Kenneth at (205) 915-9006.
Are weights and marks listed?
Each lot listing on LiveAuctioneers has photographs of the marks. Call (205) 915-9006 for weights or more photos.
Do you appraise silver?
Yes. Our ISA-accredited appraisers value American and Continental silver for insurance, estates and sale.
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