Expert: Martin G Roberts - 3/18/2005

Question
What are some ways to determine the age of copper food molds?  I have collected several over the years.

I notice that some are heavier and appear bumpier in appearance - not so smoothly made.  Does this indicate they are older?

I noticed that the hanging rings are attached differently on some.  Is this one way to identify the age?

What about the lining?  What can I look for there?

What else should I look for?

Thank you

Answer
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This is a very specialised field, which I'm not thoroughly immersed in. For myself, I look for dateable maker's marks - there appear to be few other obvious clues, though some stylistic variation may be detected in relation to general decorative design trends.

The maker's marks are not completely documented, and the reference works that do exist are obscure.

In other words, this is a tough one that I cannot answer with any clarity, and for which there may not be any clear answers.