The Industrial Revolution started in the late 18th century and by 1810 machinery was beginning to replace much of the silversmith’s handwork. Silver prior to this time was almost all hand forged. Today engraving, chasing and repousse work are still the handwork of silversmiths.
American silver prior to 1810 is eagerly sought after. Prior to 1800, its rare and American Colonial silver is the stuff of legends and museums. Most of the silver from this period was made from Spanish Colonial coins garnered by trade or booty from privateers. The Spanish dollar or 8 real AKA “piece of 8” remained legal tender in the United States until 1857. In most cases, its silver content and purity was higher than the coinage minted in the US.
