Antique Newburyport Silver Co. (N.S. Co.) Biscuit Barrel | Silver on Copper with Ceramic Liner

This is an exceptional piece of American silver history: a genuine antique Biscuit Barrel (or Cracker Jar) made by the Newburyport Silver Company (N.S. Co.), a high-quality silversmithing firm active in the early 20th century. This collectible combines an elegant, classic form with the stunning patina of age.

The base of the biscuit barrel is marked with "N.S. Co." inside a shield with "SILVER ON COPPER 1025" below. This silver makers mark belongs to Newburyport Silver Company (N.S. Co.). This mark is highly sought after as the company had a short, productive lifespan (circa 1904–1915). The makers mark confirms the superior method of construction where a thick layer of silver was plated onto a solid copper base.

The silverplating has been left in its natural, unpolished state. The deep, rich tarnish and areas where the copper base shows through provide a beautiful, textural contrast. The straight-sided body, ornate side handles, and decorative flame finial on the lid suggest a transitional style between the late Edwardian and early Art Deco periods. The piece includes its essential ceramic/porcelain inner liner, which provided crucial insulation to keep biscuits, crackers, or cookies dry.

Beyond its original use, this is a sophisticated piece for a bar cart (as an ice bucket), a kitchen counter accent, or a focal point in a study or display cabinet. Excellent antique, unpolished condition. Wear and tarnish are consistent with its age and are deliberately preserved to enhance its historical character. The original ceramic liner is intact with minor staining and expected crazing.

Measurements (approximate - rounded to the nearest quarter inch):

8 inches wide handle to handle
10.25 inches in height to top of finial
6.25 inches barrel diameter
5 inches internal barrel diameter

All sales are final so please don't hesitate to reach out to us with any questions prior to purchase.

VINTAGE & ANTIQUE
Vintage and antique items are pre-owned and aged goods. In most cases, we do not clean or polish any items that come into our shop. Once you remove an item's traces of age and patina it's not something you can reverse, so we leave those activities up to the buyer. We try our best to describe items accurately and disclose any and all flaws and imperfections. Please refer to pictures as a visual description. We want to make sure you are happy with your purchase so, please do not hesitate to ask any questions you may have prior to checkout.

SHIPPING
As much as possible, we utilize recycled shipping boxes. The box you receive your item in may show signs of wear and pre-use.

PHOTOGRAPHY
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