Gorham Victorian Loop & Knot Silver Hat Pin

This silver-plated hat pin is 7 7/8" long. It was made by Gorham and dates circa 1880. It has a large, loop end that is twisted around the stem, resembling a knot or tendril on a clinging plant. Gorham's early silver-plate was a well-regarded product. In this instance, the stronger underlying metal served to strengthen a piece otherwise subject to bending. The condition is mint. The form is perfect, and there is no loss of silver. Marks are the Gorham anchor, and "GMFGCo."