Expert: Michelle Lieberman - 6/4/2009

Question
I have been asked by an elderly relative to determine the value and possible sale; Reed & Barton King Francis I, service for 8, includes extra service utensils and storage cabinet.
How do I value the set, and where do I go should my relative decides to sell the set?
Thank you / Sheri

Answer
Hello Sheri.  

There is a King Francis pattern, which is silverplate, and a Francis I pattern, which is sterling.  I'm assuming here you've got the Francis I pattern.

Value is determined by the number of place settings plus extra place pieces and serving pieces.  The going price for a 4-piece place setting (knife, fork, salad fork, teaspoon) is about $160.  A 5-piece place setting (add a soup spoon) is about $225.  Basic serving pieces can run anywhere from $25 to $100, and go much higher for fancy serving pieces such as an asparagus fork.

A good high-end auction is probably the best place to sell the set.  If your relatives are in a large city, it should be easy to find one.  If not, there are some very good companies online.  I don't normally recommed selling sterling on eBay, but that might also be a good way to go as the Francis I pattern always gets good prices there.

Regards,
Michelle