Understanding my silver collection

Hi all, I have attached an image showing some of the silver items I own. Small pill boxes I've seen online, but the stamp and note holders I haven't seen much of. The train with moving wheels, and lute with actual strings I have not seen any of.

How would I begin to learn more about the age and history of these pieces, as well as how to get an accurate valuation? There are hundreds of silver items all together!

 

Are U a NEW MEMBER, just found this site,LOOK HERE 1st ....

 

Are U a New Member , just found This SITE , Look Here 2nd..!

 

start by looking at the hallmarks. Are they American, English, European? Those will affect values. With the price of silver being what it is, most of your items are worth more scrap (NOT saying you should) than having intrinsic or collector value. Post some of the larger items here, individually, showing clear pictures of the hallmarks. Lots of super talented and smart people here (I'm NOT one of them! LOL).

 

accurate value....... no such thing... too many variables to place a single cost price on any one item...

r u selling , buying or insuring
do u have a store , sell by auction, or or buy at flea markets
do u sell online , from the US , Italy, Mexico, Australia , Burka Fasso ......???
do you ship, or pick up only...
r u in a big city, or in the country side up a mountain...

ballpark values can be sourced out from several areas , only once most of those questions have ben answered...

It's why we don't normally do valuations here..

 

hey Vit.... u have your moments....like the rest of us !!!!

 

Full pictures of all marks needed, to start with. We also need dimensions. Without marks we're dead in the water.

 

We're, of course, happy to help but... How you tried identifying pieces with Google Images? For instance, a Google Images search brings up a number of similar silver mandolins, like this one.

Debora

 

The little coal-fired switcher looks like it might well be plated, but I like it anyway. I think one Majarjah or another had a train set made of sterling, but usually they're something else including the ornamental ones.

 

....& pill boxes and writing pads.... cute... but ordinary.

good sellers for Valentines Day though..

 

Post photos of the items and the marks. And size matters.
As said, pill boxes are not that interesting. There is some interest if they have a special shape, technique, or origin. The pill boxes in the photo look fairly recent and run of the mill.

 

And I'd add... Or prestigious maker.

Debora

 

Silver pill boxes always sell for me at antique shows