2 handled cup? sugarbowl?

[Jess]

I have this 2 handled cup or sugarbowl or something ?? 3-1/2" tall x 3-5/8 " dia. base. Top lip edge rolled in and about 2-1/2" dia.
It has stamped on the bottom: (two crossed keys in a shield impression) on the left, SHEFFIELD PLATE curved over a CROWN, over MADE IN USA, over a number 851 in the center, (a shield with vertical lines and a head ? facing left) on the right.
No other markings.
Anyone have any ideas where it came from or what it is?

[2209patrick]

Sounds similar to a mark used by Lawrence B. Smith, Boston, Massachusetts.
Founded in 1887. Went out of business around 1958.



Regards,
Pat.

[Jess]

The crossed keys look similar but the crown is entirely different and the other shield with the "birds head"? is different also. I was also under the impression that Sheffield Plate had be discontinued in the mid 1800's.

[2209patrick]

Old Sheffield Plate, or fused plate, was replaced by electroplating in the mid 1800's. Most of this was produced in Sheffield England. I don't believe much, if any, was produced in the U.S. The "Sheffield Plate" stamped on your piece is just a trademark. Your piece is electroplated.

Pat.