Bristol Silverplate Item by Poole Silver Company (EPCA)

This is a silver-plated metal item featuring a circular base with a recessed underside. The base is clearly stamped with the hallmark 'EPCA / BRISTOL / SILVERPLATE / BY POOLE / 78'. The acronym 'EPCA' stands for Electro-Plated Copper Alloy, indicating that the item consists of a base metal (likely copper) coated in a layer of silver. The maker, Poole Silver Company, was headquartered in Taunton, Massachusetts, and was known for producing high-quality silver-plated hollowware starting in the late 19th century. This specific Bristol line suggests a mid-20th-century production era, likely between 1940 and 1960. Physically, the piece demonstrates a heavily tarnished and oxidized surface, showing a deep gray to black patina consistent with long-term exposure to air without cleaning. There is visible surface wear, small scratches, and some pitting in the metal, which are typical for vintage silverplate. The construction appears sturdy, featuring a flared base and smooth walls. The numerical mark '78' likely refers to a specific pattern or production model within the Bristol series. While the heavy tarnish obscures some fine details, the crispness of the stamped lettering indicates a well-maintained die and professional manufacture during its time.