Thank you for the excellent photos and detailed notes. You have a vintage Catholic communion chalice, likely from the mid-20th century, made in Europe — possibly Italy or Germany — based on the silver purity mark “800” and the stylistic features.
Report: Vintage Catholic Communion Chalice
Object: Catholic Chalice (Eucharistic Vessel) Origin: Likely European (Italy or Germany) Date of Manufacture: Circa 1930s–1950s Material:
Cup: Stamped “800 F” — indicating 800-grade silver, which is 80% pure silver (common in Europe)
Base and Stem: Gilded brass or bronze, with relief appliqué religious motifs (e.g., wheat, sacred heart, cross, flame, dove)
Adornments: Decorative floral panels and red glass stones (possibly garnet or paste glass; likely not genuine rubies, though professional gem testing would be required to confirm)
Dimensions: Not provided, but appears standard size for altar use (~7–10 inches tall)
Design and Symbolism:
Wheat stalks and grapes represent the Eucharistic bread and wine.
Christian iconography on the base includes fire (Holy Spirit), cross and host, Sacred Heart, and all-seeing eye — commonly used in liturgical art.
The gothic or neo-romanesque styling, hammered/textured finish, and red glass insets suggest a 20th-century handmade artisan piece, possibly workshop-made for smaller parishes or chapels.
Markings:
"800 F": Indicates .800 purity silver, a standard in Germany and Italy. The "F" could refer to the workshop or town of assay but isn’t traceable without additional marks.
No visible maker’s hallmark or assay office punch beyond that, suggesting a less commercial, possibly ecclesiastical artisan source.
Condition:
Moderate surface tarnish and wear consistent with age and use.
The silver portion is intact, and the base shows original gilding with mild oxidation.
No major dents, repairs, or structural damage observed.
Estimated Market Value (as of 2024):
Condition
Description
Value Range
Fair
Worn, missing inlays, bent
$150–$250
Good (yours)
Intact, light tarnish, decorative
$300–$500
Excellent
Fully cleaned/polished, maker's marks
$500–$800+
This value reflects both its liturgical use and collector demand. Items like this are often acquired by religious collectors, churches, or antique dealers specializing in sacred objects.
Recommendation:
A professional appraisal is recommended if:
You suspect the stones are precious (gem testing).
You plan to insure or donate the item to a church or museum.
You’re considering a high-end private sale.
Otherwise, this is a well-preserved and desirable sacred antique chalice, with moderate to strong collectible value depending on silver weight and presentation.
Vintage Catholic Communion Chalice
Thank you for the excellent photos and detailed notes. You have a vintage Catholic communion chalice, likely from the mid-20th century, made in Europe — possibly Italy or Germany — based on the silver purity mark “800” and the stylistic features.
Report: Vintage Catholic Communion Chalice
Object: Catholic Chalice (Eucharistic Vessel)
Origin: Likely European (Italy or Germany)
Date of Manufacture: Circa 1930s–1950s
Material:
Dimensions: Not provided, but appears standard size for altar use (~7–10 inches tall)
Design and Symbolism:
Markings:
Condition:
Estimated Market Value (as of 2024):
Condition
Description
Value Range
Fair
Worn, missing inlays, bent
$150–$250
Good (yours)
Intact, light tarnish, decorative
$300–$500
Excellent
Fully cleaned/polished, maker's marks
$500–$800+
This value reflects both its liturgical use and collector demand. Items like this are often acquired by religious collectors, churches, or antique dealers specializing in sacred objects.
Recommendation:
A professional appraisal is recommended if:
Otherwise, this is a well-preserved and desirable sacred antique chalice, with moderate to strong collectible value depending on silver weight and presentation.