Collector’s Guide to Buying Antique Silver by Rachael Feild

Collector’s Guide to Buying Antique Silver: Authenticity, Techniques, Dating, Reproduction and Prices by Rachael Feild is a practical and extensively illustrated reference for collectors, antique dealers and anyone interested in identifying, evaluating and purchasing antique silver. Published by Greenwich Editions in 1998, this substantial hardcover guide provides an accessible introduction to the fascinating world of historic silverware while offering the practical knowledge needed to distinguish genuine period pieces from later reproductions.

Feild examines the characteristics collectors should consider when assessing antique silver, including craftsmanship, construction techniques, stylistic features, dating and authenticity. Collector’s Guide to Buying Antique Silver covers a broad range of decorative and functional silver objects, helping readers understand how designs and manufacturing methods changed over time. Particular attention is given to recognising clues that can help establish age and origin, as well as identifying reproductions and pieces that may not be what they initially appear to be.

The numerous illustrations make this an especially useful visual reference for collectors encountering silver at antique shops, auctions, fairs, markets and estate sales. While the original price information should naturally be regarded as historical rather than representative of today’s market, Collector’s Guide to Buying Antique Silver remains interesting for comparing how the antique silver market has developed since publication.

Collector’s Guide to Buying Antique Silver is a useful addition to any reference library devoted to antiques, decorative arts, silverware, metalwork or collecting, and an attractive book for both established collectors and those beginning to explore antique silver.

Condition – Very Good

The book appears clean and well preserved internally. The dust jacket shows light to moderate handling and shelf wear, particularly around the edges and corners. A previous owner’s/address-type label is present on the front inner board.