posted 10-24-2007 02:28 PM            

I was told by Silver Magazine that
J.F. JONES (Syracuse ca 1850) is more than likely the maker or jeweler. They appear to be early American Coin Silver pieces.

I received these eight forks and eight spoons approximately 35 years ago from a full set. The elderly lady who gave them to me lived in CA at the time.

I have researched without success and would appreciate any information you can give me. I'm in the market to sell or get them back to the rightful owner who likely inherited the complete set.

The background story is supposedly from a prominent name...not sure maybe Butterworth, it's been too many years.

I can email pictures. I have been unable to find the pattern name, maker or anything, but possibly William Gale & Sons, or William Gale of Gale & Hayden.

The tines are quite long; the fork is approximately 7-1/2" long, the spoons six" long. Th pieces are heavy.

On the back it says J. F. JONES (of Syracuse) and engraved with "HNB" - not positive about the middle initial. The initials on the spoons are completely worn off. These shine up very nicely with silver creme.

Any feedback or instructions on finding the history of these pieces would be greatly appreciated.
Sincerely, Judy

posted 10-24-2007 06:10 PM            

I didn't really have time to research any thing until I retired. I recently acquired many vintage/antique items from my step-father's estate. I will be posting some of these on Ebay, but have lots of research to do.

These forks and spoons have been tucked away, and I decided to research them as well; find out the value or track down the original owner, which will probably me near impossible.

If you don't get the pictures this way, I'll be happy to email them directly to you. I am new at this including the picture taking, so am open to any suggestions.

Thanks for your response.

posted 10-24-2007 07:21 PM            

Your items do sound interesting and I suspect you have not read the forum guidelines that talk about not requesting information for use on auctions or resale.

The participants of this forum volunteer their time and expertise freely. You state that you do not have the time to research information for items you wish to put up for auction on ebay.

I hope you understand.

Respectfully,
Fred

posted 10-24-2007 07:57 PM            

Perhaps that was more information than I needed to give on this forum.

I would truly like to get these back to the family. In order to do that, I have to track down the pattern, be sure of the initials, etc. If I never find the family, then perhaps at some point in time, I would be in the market to sell them, but not on Ebay. I do understand and respectfully appreciate any information I receive on this forum.

Warm regards, Judy

posted 10-25-2007 12:20 AM            

If your desire is to locate the family and to not seek reward for returning the spoons & forks to them then that is very noble and generous of you. Finding out the silversmiths info and the pattern name is unlikely to be of help unless the pattern was unique to the family. And it is not.

Doing business research whether it is for eBay or any other business platform (public/private/internet/brick & mortar) is still not tolerated. Give the Guidelines another read and when in doubt about the Guidelines please ask before posting.

"....find out the value..." If you desire valuation info then you should seek the services of a Professional Appraiser (click here for more info).

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As of 1/2011 Judy never responded.