Reed & Barton 1202: Is Your Vintage Dish Worth $15 Or A Fortune? The Ultimate Collector's Guide For 2025
The Reed & Barton 1202 pattern is one of the most frequently searched antique silver items online, yet the answer to its value is surprisingly complex and often misunderstood. As of late December 2025, collectors and casual sellers alike are often confused because the number '1202' was used for two distinctly different items—one of which is a common, affordable silverplate dish, and the other a rare, high-value piece of sterling hollowware. Understanding the difference is the single most important factor in determining if your item is worth a minimal amount or is a hidden treasure.
This comprehensive guide cuts through the confusion, providing you with the most up-to-date information on the history, identification marks, and current market value of the Reed & Barton 1202. We will detail the specific characteristics of the common Riviera Pattern and explain how to verify if you possess the much rarer sterling silver version, allowing you to accurately price your item for the 2025 antique market.
The Crucial Distinction: Silverplate vs. Sterling 1202
The vast majority of items marked "Reed & Barton 1202" that appear on the market are small, decorative bowls or dishes that are silver-plated. However, official records confirm that Reed & Barton also designated the code 1202 for a separate, discontinued line of Sterling Hollowware. This single material difference creates a massive gulf in potential value.
The Common Silverplate (Riviera Pattern)
The most common 1202 item is a decorative dish, typically 6 to 6.5 inches in diameter, often featuring an ornate, pierced, or repoussé rim. This is widely known as the Riviera Pattern.
- Material Mark: These pieces are marked with "Reed & Barton 1202" and may also include "EPNS" (Electro Plated Nickel Silver) or "Silver Plate". The weight will feel lighter than a solid silver piece of the same size.
- Value: As a vintage silverplate item, its value is primarily decorative. Current market listings for pieces in good condition typically range from $10 to $30, making it an affordable collectible rather than a significant investment.
- Vintage: The Riviera Pattern is generally dated to the mid-20th century, often around the 1950s.
The Rare Sterling Hollowware (Code RDS1202)
The true collector's prize is the sterling silver version. While less information is publicly available on its specific design, it is categorized as a discontinued piece of sterling hollowware.
- Material Mark: Sterling silver pieces will be clearly marked with "STERLING" or "925/1000". This mark is the definitive way to confirm its high value. If the piece lacks the sterling mark, it is silverplate.
- Value: The value of sterling silver is tied to the commodity price of silver, which has seen fluctuations. As of 2025, the intrinsic value of sterling silver is significant (with estimates around $25 per troy ounce). A sterling hollowware piece is not only valued for its silver content but also for its rarity and craftsmanship, potentially commanding hundreds of dollars depending on its weight and condition.
Identifying Your Reed & Barton 1202: The Riviera Pattern Details
To definitively identify your 1202 item, you must examine the hallmarks and the physical characteristics of the piece. The common silverplate dish is easily recognizable by its specific design elements.
The typical Riviera Pattern 1202 dish is a small, round bowl or candy dish, often measuring approximately 6.25 inches in diameter. Its defining features are the intricate detailing around the rim, which is either a delicate pierced (cut-out) design or a repoussé (raised relief) motif. The design often incorporates floral, scrollwork, or grape-and-vine elements, lending it a distinctly Victorian or elegant mid-century decorative style.
When inspecting your piece, look for the following entities and characteristics:
- Hallmarks: The primary mark should read "Trademark Reed & Barton 1202". If you find an additional mark like "EPNS" or if the silver layer shows wear exposing a base metal underneath, it is silverplate.
- Patina and Condition: Silverplate items, especially those from the 1950s, may show signs of wear or "bleeding" where the plating has worn off. This is a clear indicator that the piece is not solid sterling silver.
- Function: The small size and shallow depth of the 1202 Riviera dish made it ideal for use as a candy dish, bonbon bowl, or a small serving tray for nuts or condiments.
The Enduring Legacy of Reed & Barton
The Reed & Barton company, which produced the 1202 pattern, holds a storied place in American silver history, providing a rich context for any collector [cite: 13, 17 in step 1]. The company's longevity and commitment to quality are what make even their silverplate pieces desirable.
A Timeline of American Silver Excellence
The company's origins trace back to 1824 in Taunton, Massachusetts [cite: 4, 18 in step 1].
- 1824: The firm is founded by Isaac Babbitt as Babbitt & Crossman, initially producing items from Britannia metal—an alloy that was a precursor to modern silverplate [cite: 3, 17 in step 1].
- 1834: Henry Reed and Charles Barton acquire the company, eventually renaming it Reed & Barton. Their leadership established the company as a major force in American silversmithing.
- 19th & 20th Centuries: Reed & Barton became known for its exquisite craftsmanship in both sterling flatware and hollowware. The company was responsible for creating the official medals for the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.
- 2015: After nearly two centuries of operation, the company officially ceased operations, adding a layer of historical significance to all its remaining pieces.
Topical Authority: Reed & Barton's Most Valuable Patterns
While the 1202 Riviera pattern is a charming vintage piece, its value is modest compared to the company's most sought-after sterling silver lines. Understanding these high-value patterns provides necessary context for the entire Reed & Barton collecting market.
The most valuable and highly collectible Reed & Barton patterns are almost always sterling silver flatware and exceptional hollowware pieces, including:
- Francis I: Patented in 1906, this is arguably Reed & Barton's most famous and valuable pattern. It is known for its heavy weight and intricate, sculptural fruit and flower motifs.
- La Reine: An extremely rare and elaborate Art Nouveau pattern, La Reine is one of the most valuable pieces due to its sculptural cherub and floral design.
- Burgundy: A popular and highly collected sterling flatware pattern known for its elegant, flowing design.
The market for antique silver remains strong, particularly for pieces with documented history and clear provenance. The simple rule for your Reed & Barton 1202 remains: check for the "STERLING" mark. If it's the common Riviera Silverplate, enjoy it as a beautiful piece of history. If it's the rare Sterling Hollowware, you may have uncovered a valuable piece of American silversmithing legacy.
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