Reed & Barton Gilt Metal "United States" Salt and Pepper Set

third quarter 19th century, Taunton, Massachusetts, model #4764/5-S, including a pair of pedestal salt cellars and pair of baluster pepper casters, each with rope-twist banding and decorated with applied medallions of a flag-mantled and displayed eagle-crested American escutcheon, the salts additionally with two trident-mantled and addorsed dolphin-crested plaques reading "United States", all raised on a waisted base above four anthemion feet.
cellars, h. 2-5/8", dia. 3-3/4"; casters, h. 6-7/8", dia. 2-1/2"

Literature: Dorothy T. Rainwater, Martin Fuller & Colette Fuller, Encyclopedia of American Silver Manufacturers, 5th ed. (Atglen, PA: Schiffer, 2004), pp. 193-197.

Notes: This set is reported to have been part of the deck saloon service of the SS United States, launched in 1864 and wrecked off Cape Romain, South Carolina in 1881.

**A rare and handsome set with no significant condition issues. No dents, breaks or repairs noted, and only the most minor surface wear with no large or deep scratches or dings. The gilding is generally bright and intact, with some wear on the highest relief, and some oxidation (which can be removed with a proper cleaning).