Simple Steps to Sell Silverware You Don’t Use
Dec 5, 2022
{
"Title": "Simple Steps to Sell Unused Silverware: Identification, Sorting, and Safe Selling Guide",
"Date": "12/05/22",
"Content": "
Turning Unused Silverware into Cash
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If you have old silverware tucked away in a drawer or cabinet that you no longer use, you might be surprised to learn it could hold real value. Sterling silver flatware and even some coin silver pieces may be worth considerably more than the common silver-plated sets that were widely produced in the 20th century. Whether you’ve inherited a set, discovered mismatched forks and spoons, or just want to simplify your home, learning how to identify, weigh, and properly prepare silverware is the first step.
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Step 1: Identify Silver vs Silver-Plated Flatware
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The biggest factor in determining the value of silverware is whether it is real sterling silver or silver-plated.
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Look for hallmarks: Genuine sterling silver is often stamped with “925,” “Sterling,” or “.925.” These marks mean the piece is 92.5% pure silver, the standard for sterling.
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Coin silver: Older American flatware may say “Coin” or “900”, meaning about 90% silver content.
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Silver-plated marks: Watch for terms like EPNS (Electroplated Nickel Silver), EP, Plate, or Community Plate. These are plated with a thin layer of silver over a base metal.
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Magnet test: Sterling silver is not magnetic. If a piece is strongly attracted to a magnet, it’s most likely plated over steel.
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Visual clues: Silverware with worn spots that reveal a yellowish or copper color underneath is likely plated.
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You can find additional hallmark guides from trusted sources such as the U.S. Mint.
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Step 2: Test and Confirm Suspected Silver
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If markings are unclear, simple home tests can help narrow things down:
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Acid test: Silver test kits use a small scratch on the surface and a drop of acid to confirm silver content. Always follow safety guidelines.
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Electronic testers: These measure metal conductivity and can help confirm silver purity.
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Professional confirmation: When in doubt, many buyers or appraisers can test silver in a non-destructive way.
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Step 3: Weigh Your Silverware
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Weight is a key part of determining silver value. A simple digital kitchen or jewelry scale can show grams.
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Record weight in grams: Silver buyers often calculate melt value based on grams of pure silver, not ounces.
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Separate non-sterling pieces: Keep sterling flatware separate from plated items to avoid confusion.
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Discounts for handles: Note that many knives and some utensils have stainless steel blades with sterling handles. Hollow handles weigh significantly less in pure silver than they appear.
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For accuracy in conversions, you can refer to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).
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Step 4: Sort and Organize
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Sorting silverware before requesting an appraisal or sending it in saves time and leads to clearer results.
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Group by purity: Keep 925 sterling pieces in one bag, coin silver in another, and plated separately.
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Remove non-metal pieces: If utensils have wooden or plastic handles or inserts, leave them intact if difficult to disassemble, but note they don’t add silver value.
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Label bags: Simple notes such as “Sterling Forks – 312 grams” prevent mix-ups.
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Digital record-keeping tools, such as GavelBase, can be helpful for storing photos, notes, and weights in one secure online place, especially if you are cataloging multiple lots.
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Step 5: Document with Photos and Notes
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Create a simple record of what you’re sending:
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Take clear photos of each group of items, including visible stamps or hallmarks.
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Note weights, counts, and any special pieces.
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Save your notes digitally or in a notebook for reference.
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Step 6: Pack and Ship Safely
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When you’ve prepared your silverware for a mail-in appraisal kit or offer, careful packing is essential.
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Wrap each group securely: Use small bags or bubble wrap to keep items from shifting.
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Double-box packaging: Place wrapped items in a small box, then into a larger box with padding for added security.
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Use insured shipping: USPS Registered Mail is one of the most secure and insurable methods for precious metals. You can learn more on the USPS Registered Mail guide.
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Track your package: Always use a trackable service and keep receipts until payment is received.
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Some mail-in services offer free, tracked, and insured kits so you don’t have to prepare packaging yourself.
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Step 7: Understand Melt Value vs Offer Value
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Knowing what to expect makes the payment process smoother.
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Melt value: The raw silver weight multiplied by current silver price per gram. This is a baseline, not a guaranteed payout.
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Offer value: Buyers discount melt value slightly to cover refining costs, risks, and business expenses. Offers are typically a percentage of melt.
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Resale value: Certain collectible brands, patterns, and complete sets may command more than melt value if sold intact.
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Step 8: Choose Payment Method
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Once your silver is accepted and tested, payment is usually quick. Common payment options include:
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Method | Pros | Cons |
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PayPal | Fast, widely accepted | Fees may apply |
Venmo | Quick transfer to app | Daily limits |
Zelle | Direct to bank, instant | Banks may set limits |
Cash App | Easy for app users | Spending limits |
ACH Transfer | Safe, direct deposit | May take 1–3 days |
Check | Useful for records, no app needed | Slower, requires deposit |
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Frequently Asked Questions
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How can I tell if my silverware is sterling without stamps?
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If no stamps are visible, an acid test or electronic tester can confirm. Professional verification is recommended.
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Is silver-plated flatware worth anything?
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Plated silver has minimal metal value, though vintage or collectible sets may sell for decorative or secondhand purposes.
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What is the difference between melt value and what I’ll actually get?
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Offers are typically below melt, since buyers must refine and resell. Complete, desirable sets may fetch closer to resale value instead of melt.
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Should I clean or polish before sending?
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Light tarnish does not affect value. Avoid aggressive cleaning, which can damage hallmarks or surfaces.
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Key Takeaways
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Check for “925,” “Sterling