Most Medallion silver was made during the coin silver period but you’ll find a good deal made into the 1870’s in the sterling standard.
The Romans and Greeks made Intaglio rings with heads of gods, goddesses and important personages. These Classical faces showed up on Victorian furniture, sea shells (cameos) and silver. They were made by various silversmiths throughout the country. Some of the most spectacular were the three dimensional faces on serving pieces made by Wood & Hughes of New York.
The most common items found are spoons and forks. Tea knives, all silver with flat handles and silver blades are rare and sought after. During the late 19th and early 20th Century Gorham made hollow handle dinner knives to match the pattern.
With the discovery of the Comstock Lode in Nevada, large quantities of silver began arriving in San Francisco. Many California silver companies emerged to produce silver for the local gentry in the most modern styles. The Medallion pattern was an immediate success and large quantities can still be found in old Bay area families’ silver chests.
The precursor to medallion flatware is a very rare pattern made by Thomas Harland of George Washington circa 1810.
