How do I clean a silver coaster?

Use a specialised silver polish and a soft cloth to remove tarnish from the metal surfaces. Take care to avoid getting liquid polish on the wooden base or felt lining. Buff gently with a clean cloth to restore the shine without rubbing away thin plating on older pieces.

Can these coasters hold champagne bottles?

Standard vintage wine coasters accommodate most traditional wine bottles and narrow spirits decanters. Wider champagne bottles may require larger coasters or multiple bottle holders. Check the internal diameter of the coaster before attempting to seat wider bottles.

How do I date an antique coaster?

Examine the piece for hallmarks indicating the assay office, metal purity, and date letter. Style indicators like Victorian scrolling or Edwardian piercing also help narrow the period of manufacture. Construction methods, such as Old Sheffield plating techniques, point to specific manufacturing eras.