Silver Overlay Frosted Glass Nut Dish and Square Underplate with Berry/Fruit Pattern
Likely Silver City Glass Co. or Rockwell Silver Co. · Collectibles & Antiques > Kitchenware > Glassware
Era / Decade
1940s-1950s (Mid-Century Modern Silver Overlay era)
Material
Frosted (acid-etched) glass base with Sterling Silver .999 deposit/overlay
Condition
Good. There is visible heavy tarnish on the silver and some edge wear/rubbing on the overlay pattern. No major chips or cracks visible on the glass body.
Demand Level
Niche/Moderate. There is a dedicated market for 'Silver Overlay' collectors, though interest in smaller nut dishes is lower than for larger pitchers or vases.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
Low: $15.00 | Mid: $28.00 | High: $40.00 (as a set)
Estimated Retail Value
$45.00 - $65.00 (historical conversion estimate)
Comparable Sales
Single Silver Overlay bowls often sell for $10-$15. Sets including a matching plate typically fetch $25-$35 on eBay. Signed pieces (e.g., sterling markings) can command a 20% premium.
Description
A beautiful two-piece set featuring a small deep nut bowl and a matching square underplate with rounded corners. The set is crafted from frosted satin glass and embellished with a dense 'Silver Overlay' technique depicting berries, leaves, and vines. The silver is applied as a heavy deposit rather than paint, originally polished to a high mirror shine. The plate features a sunburst/starburst center pattern with a beaded ring.
Key Features
Sterling silver deposit overlay, frosted 'satin' glass finish, desirable mixed fruit/berry botanical motif, two-piece matching set configuration.
Authenticity Indicators
Typical 'sand-blasted' frosted texture of mid-century glass; depth of the silver application suggests genuine electroplated deposit rather than modern silver paint. Confidence Level: High.
Flaws to Note
Significant oxidation/tarnish on silver (requires gentle polishing), some thinning of the silver design near the rim and high-friction areas (permanent wear), micro-scratches on frosted surface.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay or Etsy. These platforms cater best to collectors of vintage glassware and allow for specific keyword targeting like 'Sterling Silver Overlay'.
Selling Tips
Do NOT use abrasive cleaners; use a gentle silver polishing cloth to bring back the shine without removing the thin layer of silver. Use 'Atomic Vintage' or 'Hollywood Regency' as secondary keywords. Photograph against a dark background to make the silver pop against the frosted glass.