Here are your top 5 tips to remember before selling your silver flatware in San Diego.

1) Identify whether it actually is made of sterling silver, and not just silver plated. If it is genuine sterling silver flatware, the word “sterling” will be on the flatware. That is, unless it is an antique manufactured prior to 1860.

2) Identify the maker, era, and any patterns; then go online and research the popularity of each. Collectors often focus only one particular kind of item. So you need to know if your flatware falls into an in-demand niche.

3) Don’t be overly concerned about signs of use. Slight damage on antique flatware does not significantly reduce its value. If the silverware is tarnished though be sure to have the tarnish removed, as tarnish will significantly lower the price. If any of your flatware pieces have been modified that will also lower the price.

4) Beware of forgeries. Just because your silver flatware is old, doesn’t mean that it is authentic or worth a lot of money. Forged maker’s marks have been appearing for hundreds of year.

5) Before selling your silver flatware, polish it with a soft polishing cloth and a non-abrasive polish. Wear cotton gloves and dry your flatware as soon as possible after cleaning. Don’t put your silverware in the dishwasher!

###

Now that you’ve learned a few tips about selling silver flatware in San Diego, it would probably be a good idea to read this article: How San Diego Pawn Shops Work.