James Butler, Phila., Twist & Engr'd Bright Cut Coin Silver Pie Server

Often attributed to prominent 19th century silversmith James Watts, the particular "animal head over shield with star" mark found on this lengthy, 9 1/2", 2.4 T. oz., coin silver pie server belongs to James Butler. Both men worked in Philadelphia in the mid 19th century.

Catherine Hollan in her encyclopedic Philadelphia Silversmiths notes Butler was a partner with Watts for "only one year 1867, then successfully continued independently manufacturing silverware with engraved patterns through 1875."

Hollan further clarifies, "He used an incuse animal head over shield similar to Watt's other horse and griffin chevron marks."

Consistent with the notation above about Butler's work, this piece is extensively engraved in motifs that include a Greek key, an anthemion leaf, and rosettes.

The otherwise flat handle has a twisted stem ending in an triangular plane with a leaf-shaped tip.

It is lightly engraved in a feathered line script "M.C.H." monogram set sideways on the handle front.

The blade is flat, with raised and notched shoulders that have tapered flange edges.

Engagingly individualistic in form but of a telling style overall, this is very much an item that bespeaks its 1870 period and place of manufacture.

In excellent condition, this is free of bends, burrs, or nicks, while the engraving remains crisp and well-defined. The finish shows a soft patina, with only light surface scratches consistent with age.

Marks are as cited above, along with the word "Coin."