it is definitely plated/washed, if it's silver at all. Aluminum would be the only other thing i can think of that could be in the ground that long and still be that shiney. Either way, it feels like it could fall apart if i cleaned it...Looks plated or silver washed. Doesn't look like a sterling piece to me. But I also hope I'm wrong...maybe it's just very dirty 🤔
Y'all are definite about it, how can you tell from just looking? Tryin to get educated, and to know what you are seeing, for future finds.
Thank you, and everyone for the input! I think it looked something like this one (mine is missing the bow.)If it was silver, it would be smooth, no pops or rusty spots. Can be tarnished dark grey or black with just some silver spots. Those rusty spots are a clear indicator of plating.
Good luck to you sir. I like the way you think!