Five Arm Candelabras

[jeanien1018]

I have a pair of 5 arm candelabras that appear to be silver over brass. I was told the markings are Barbour Silver Co. of Hartford, CT that eventually became international Silver any idea what they are worth?

 

[Red-Coat]

Hi @jeanien1018 and welcome to Tnet.

It was I that identified the mark from the picture you sent to @Gene Mean. They didn't become the International Silver Company, but rather became part of that coalition of manufacturers who banded together to have more competitive muscle against the larger makers.

It's a nice-looking piece but, sadly out of fashion for most people's tastes. I would say somewhere between $150-$200 on a good day for a single piece and only a little beyond double that for having a pair. Less ornate ones from Barbour start at around $50. Condition is also important with respect to the amount of wear on the plating and whether the underlaying base metal shows through.

 

[jeanien1018]

Hi @jeanien1018 and welcome to Tnet.

It was I that identified the mark from the picture you sent to @Gene Mean. They didn't become the International Silver Company, but rather became part of that coalition of manufacturers who banded together to have more competitive muscle against the larger makers.

It's a nice-looking piece but, sadly out of fashion for most people's tastes. I would say somewhere between $150-$200 on a good day for a single piece and only a little beyond double that for having a pair. Less ornate ones from Barbour start at around $50. Condition is also important with respect to the amount of wear on the plating and whether the underlaying base metal shows through.

Thank you very much for the information that you have provided. I have 2 more questions if you don’t mind. When I list this to sell, would I list it as Barbour Silver Co.? Also, do you have any idea of if it’s age or the time period it was made?
Jeanie

 

[Red-Coat]

You're welcome.

Yes, 'Barbour Silver Co.' would be an appropriate description.

The company was established in 1892 but, after becoming part of International Silver in 1898, their trademarks continued to be used under the International Silver umbrella until 1931.

Some members of International Silver continued to use their original marks, some switched to 'IS' or 'International Silver' marks, and some used their original marks alongside the 'IS' mark.

Stylistically, I would think your candleabras are probably late 19th Century (ie before Barbour was part of International), but in any case certainly not after 1931.

Good luck.