Noritake New Unused Butter Knife EPNS Showa Retro Vintage

Although new and unused, the silver plating was polished once to remove tarnish.
Fine white scratches are visible when held up to the light.
This is a rare butter knife that is now discontinued.
Set of 5

■Product Overview■
Noritake's EPNS (Electro Plated Nickel Silver) butter knives are high-quality silver-plated cutlery primarily manufactured from the mid to late 20th century, reflecting the historical background of Nippon Toki Godo Kaisha (now Noritake Co., Ltd.), founded in 1904. These are substantial products made by silver-plating high-grade nickel silver (nickel, copper, and zinc alloy), and are vintage items filled with Noritake's quality and technology, which were favored for export and for use in hotels and restaurants.

History and Features of Noritake EPNS Butter Knives
What is EPNS: Abbreviation for Electro Plated Nickel Silver. It is silver plating applied over an alloy of nickel, copper, and zinc (nickel silver), possessing beautiful luster and durability.
Historical Background: Noritake (formerly Nippon Toki), founded in 1904, developed Japan's first hard white porcelain dinner set with an eye on exports to America and other countries from the beginning. High-quality cutlery, including silverware (EPNS), began to be manufactured to complement these Western-style tableware.
Historical Context: Particularly during the Showa Retro period (around the 1950s-70s), they were manufactured with the Noritake E.P.N.S. JAPAN stamp for use in hotels and restaurants, or as gifts.

Value and Appeal: Unlike modern stainless steel, they are characterized by their substantial feel and warm luster. In the antique and vintage market, they are highly regarded, similar to Old Noritake ceramics.

Noritake silverware, often marked with hotel logos alongside Noritake E.P.N.S., circulates in the antique market, and its historical value is recognized.