Antique Silver-Plated Sugar Bowl for Manhattan Beach Hotel

Circa 1920s-1940s

The W. Cox Silver Co. was an American company known for producing silver-plated wares, often for hotels and restaurants. Their pieces typically featured durable construction and elegant designs, intended for heavy use in commercial settings. The "EPNS" (Electro-Plated Nickel Silver) marking on such items indicates a layer of silver applied over a base metal, a common practice for creating affordable yet attractive serviceware.

Items bearing the names of specific hotels, like the "Manhattan Beach Hotel" in this case, are particularly interesting as they represent a tangible link to the history of hospitality and travel. These pieces were not only functional but also served as a form of branding for the establishments, reflecting the era's emphasis on guest experience and luxury. The combination of a known maker like W. Cox Silver Co. and a specific hotel provenance adds to the item's historical significance.