Antique 1865 Gorham Sterling Silver

Antique 1865 Gorham Sterling Silver

Antique sterling silver is 92.5% silver with a 7.5% additive, usually copper. Sterling silver made in the USA after approximately the 1850’s always has a sterling mark. It may say Sterling. It may be .925 or show the fraction 925/1000. If it does not have this mark then it is likely not sterling, unless it is foreign made (not in the USA) and has other hallmarks that designate its silver content. It can also be tested with an acid to determine its content, but that should only be done by a professional.