M S C Middletown Silverware EPC ~ Electroplate Copper?

[Kelly_L]

I have a very pretty, heavy tray. It is marked on the back M S C Middletown Silverware EPC 811420. I am pretty sure that the EPC stands for electroplate(d) copper, partly because I can see copper in worn spots. I've tried to find something out about this company online, not real successful. Maybe someone can point me in the right direction. Maybe know a timeframe? Still in production? Does the copper showing through in spots make this less desireable? I personally would rather have something all copper, but that's me. Thanks ~ Kelly ~

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c396/ ... ray012.jpg
http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c396/ ... ray010.jpg
http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c396/ ... ray009.jpg
http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c396/ ... ray007.jpg
http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c396/ ... ray006.jpg
http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c396/ ... ray005.jpg
http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c396/ ... ray004.jpg

[dragonflywink]

Middletown Silver Co. of Middletown, CT, started after 1899, in business until at least 1939. Rainwater's information is a bit spotty, may have been in business later.

Cheryl ;o)

[Kelly_L]

Thanks Cheryl, so what makes an item like this an antique? How old does it have to be? Is this just considered to be Vintage?

~ Kelly ~