What does Epns mean on silverware?

Electroplated nickel silver
EPNS: Electroplated nickel silver, commonly known as “EPNS”, is an alloy of nickel, copper, and zinc that’s covered with a layer of pure silver in an electrochemical process. Nickel’s resemblance to silver helps disguise any worn spots that develop over time.

What does Epns A1 Sheffield mean?

EPNS represents ElectroPlated Nickel Silver meaning silver plated over a base metal alloy made mostly of nickel. The term A1 is mostly a marketing ploy meant to indicate that a piece was of superior plating.

Is Sheffield silver plate worth anything?

Sheffield silver plate was attractive and not as expensive as sterling silver. Today, like sterling silver and pewter collectibles, Sheffield silver plate remains popular with collectors. Values range widely with some pieces commanding several thousands to tens of thousands of dollars.

What is Epns Sheffield?

EPNS stands for electro plated nickel silver, this means your base metal below the silver is 12% nickel silver NOT stainless steel. Why should my cutlery be nickel-based? This gives maximum strength and durability as well as providing the best adhesion for pure silver coating.

What is the difference between silverplate and Epns?

Silver-Plated or Electroplated items are made out of metal, usually nickel or copper, which are then electrically silver plated by using electricity, a potassium cyanide solution and two electrodes. Many silver plated items bear the marks ‘EPNS’ that stand for Electro Plated Nickel Silver or ‘EP’ for Electro Plate.

What is the best way to clean Epns?

Commercial cleaners are also available to clean EPNS.

1. Plug the sink and fill it with warm water.
2. Add mild dish soap and wash the EPNS cutlery or utensils thoroughly.
3. Run the EPNS through warm water to wash off the soap residue.
4. Take the utensils or cutlery and dry them with paper towels or soft cloth kitchen towels.

How do you clean Epns A1 silver?

Is Sheffield real silver?

Sheffield plate is a layered combination of silver and copper that was used for many years to produce a wide range of household articles. Almost every article made in sterling silver was also crafted by Sheffield makers, who used this manufacturing process to produce nearly identical wares at far less cost.

How do I identify a Sheffield plate?

Three ways to identify Old Sheffield Plate: Closely examine the edges of the upper rim and the base. On these pieces, any applied border, handles or feet will usually have a seam. This means a layer of silver has been lapped over or “sandwiched” and therefore a piece you can correctly label as Old Sheffield Plate.

How can you tell Epns from silver?

To identify silver plate, look for places where the thin layer of silver has worn away, revealing the base metal underneath. If the exposed base metal is a pale yellow, then the item is EPNS.

How do I know if I have Epns?

Look first for any markings on the item. EPNS items will usually be stamped “E.P.N.S.,” “E.. P” for electroplate or “A1” for highest quality. The presence of any of these marks is a sure sign that the piece is made from EPNS.

How do you clean Epns silver?

How is an EPN different from a Sheffield plate?

Still employed in modern times, it was introduced in the 1840s, replacing a mechanical plating process known as “Sheffield plate,” which in turn was developed as a cheaper alternative to solid silver items. EPNS can usually be distinguished from solid silver and Sheffield plate through markings and patterns of wear.

What does EPNs stand for in stainless steel?

EPNS – What Does That Mean? EPNS stands for “Electro Plated Nickel Silver”. Nickel Silver (or occasionally stainless steel) is the base metal onto which silver is plated.

What’s the difference between EPNS and EPSS cutlery?

The major practical difference between EPNS and EPSS is that EPNS is much more readily re-plateable in the future when the silver has worn down. EPSS might not be re-plateable so if you envisage that your cutlery may be suitable for re-plating at some future date, then our advice would be to opt for Sheffield Cutlery.

What kind of silver spoons are from Sheffield?

Silver Plated Handle 24k Gold Bowl. Gotham (Birmingham) Sheffield Kings Serving Spoon Sterling Silver? or Plate? VINTAGE SILVER PLATE SERVING SPOON TONG SQUEEZE HANDLE PATENT PENDING SHEFFIELD? COOPER BROS. SHEFFIELD ENGLAND LG. SLOTTED SERVING SPOON~8 14″L. Vintage Sheffield England Silver Plated Serving Spoon – Olives. Gold washed