800 silver trinket tray 4.5 x 3.25 1 inch high heavily embossed Marked M&M 800
Title: German WWII 800 Silver Trinket Tray, Heavily Embossed, Marked M&M
Description: This 800 silver trinket tray is a charming piece, measuring 4.5 x 3.25 inches with a height of 1 inch. It features a heavily embossed design, showcasing intricate craftsmanship. The tray bears the mark "M&M" indicating its maker and is made from 800 silver, denoting a high silver content. This elegant tray serves as a functional and decorative item for storing small keepsakes or serving as a beautiful accent piece.
Product Details:
- Dimensions: 4.5 x 3.25 inches, 1 inch height
- Silver Content: 800 silver (80% pure silver)
- Design: Heavily embossed pattern
- Maker's Mark: "M&M" indicating the maker
Brief History of Silver Making in Germany during WWII: During World War II, silver making in Germany was influenced by the socio-political climate of the time. The Nazi regime, under Adolf Hitler, controlled and regulated various industries, including the production of silverware and precious metals.
Germany had a long history of silvermaking, renowned for its skilled artisans and craftsmanship. However, during WWII, many silver manufacturers shifted their focus to supporting the war effort, redirecting resources and labor towards military production.
The silver industry in Germany during this period experienced a decline in luxury and decorative silverware production as the focus shifted to more utilitarian items needed for the war. Nevertheless, silver items such as trinket trays, utensils, and other practical objects were still produced, albeit with simplified designs and reduced extravagance.
The "800" silver mark on the trinket tray indicates its silver content. "800" denotes that the tray is made of 80% pure silver, a standard silver alloy used in Germany and many European countries. The "M&M" mark represents the maker of the tray, although without further information, it is challenging to identify the specific manufacturer associated with those initials.
Despite the challenges and restrictions imposed during the war, silver making in Germany continued to showcase the country's craftsmanship and dedication to quality. The production of silver items like this trinket tray served as a testament to the resilience of artisans in maintaining their craft amidst wartime constraints. Today, these pieces provide glimpses into the historical context of German silvermaking during WWII and serve as collectibles that commemorate the era's craftsmanship.