Silver Bottles, Decanters & Flasks

Silver and silverplated bottles, decanters, and flasks lend an air of refinement to the act of imbibing in alcoholic beverages. They also add a charming, decorative aspect to homes. While many choose to decant a fine bottle of Bordeaux in a sterling decanter or bring a hip flask of aged scotch for a night out on the town, even teetotalers can still enjoy these objects for their aesthetic value.

Antique bottles and other forged vessels make for a beautiful display on living room and kitchen walls and they can be found in a style to match any décor. Whether one prefers the aesthetic of an Art Nouveau decanter with elaborate silver overlaying or a flask with a rich patina, superb examples abound at a variety of price points.

Sterling bottles, decanters, and flasks tend to be more expensive than silverplated or overlaid versions from the same time period, but the cost is largely contingent on the style, producer, and rarity of the object in question.

Quick Facts

• In 2013, Christie’s sold a set of silver-mounted glass decanters from the early part of the 20th century for $3,000
• Sterling silver flasks can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to many thousands of dollars for rare pieces by esteemed makers like Tiffany & Co.
• In 2012, Auctioneers Norman C. Heckler & Co. sold a rare double eagle flask from early 20th century Pittsburg for more than $50,000