How to Find Old Silver-Plate Flatware Patterns

Explore online auction websites and search for antique silver-plate flatware. Additionally, seek out websites that specialize in antique silver-plate flatware such as Antique Cupboard, which includes features such as what to collect, find your pattern and most popular patterns. Other sites, such as Replacements Ltd., may include searchable databases that will allow you to research old silver flatware patterns.

Go to flea markets and swap meets to find old silver-plate flatware patterns. You may get lucky and find a complete set of flatware, but don't expect this to happen. If the pattern is truly old, pieces may have gotten lost along the way. Once you find a pattern you like, try to expand your collection piece by piece. Manufacturers may have produced popular patterns for many years, making some patterns easier to find than others.

Visit individual antique stores or an antiques mall with several dealers who can help you find old silver-plate flatware. If you have a particular flatware pattern you want to identify, bring a piece or a photo of the flatware with you to the antiques dealer, who can then try to identify your piece. He may refer you to a dealer who specializes in flatware.

Seek out local estate sales. Go to the website of the estate sale organizer to view photos of items offered at the estate sale, prior to the sale. Estate sales can be a great source of a wide variety of old items. If the sale promises flatware or silver, you may just find old silver-plate patterns. Estate sales are typically first come, first serve, held onsite at the estate, so plan to attend early to get the best chance of buying old silver-plate flatware.

Identify the manufacturer of any silver-plate flatware pieces in your collection. You can likely find this engraved on the underside of each piece. If the manufacturer is still in business, contact the company to inquire where you may find additional pieces for your collection. The manufacturer may refer you to specialists who can help identify your pieces and find companion pattern pieces.