Wine coasters were not made until the 1760’s when they were produced from pierced sheet similar to the cake baskets of that date. These silver wine bottle or decanter holders, were usually made in pairs, sometimes fours, but it is rare to find an antique set longer than four. The silver hallmarks were often stamped on the edge of the base and as a result the marks can sometimes be difficult to read, either because they were badly struck or because, over the years, they have become rubbed. “The early name for such pieces was a ‘stand’ or ‘slider’; the term ‘coaster’, first recognized in 1887, was derived from the custom that, after finishing dinner, the cloth was removed from the table, the ladies withdrew, and the bottle of port was ‘coasted’ around the table by the men.” G. Bernard Hughes – ‘Old English Wine Coasters’ .

Bottle holders normally come in two distinct forms. The basket shape allows the bottle to be laid on its side ready for pouring. The upright stand has a handle and is usually adjustable in height; it’s often suitable for both wine and champagne bottles.

Decanter Wagons make a decorative addition to the dining table. These have two silver bottle coasters mounted onto a 2 wheeled frame which can be moved up and down the table.

The Jolly Boat is a special type of decanter wagon normally used on board ship in the naval officers’ dining room. It was customary at the table after pouring wine or spirit from the decanter, to return it to the stand and push it along to the next officer. It is believed that the saying ‘to push the boat out’ has its origins in the custom as the officer paying for the wine was the first to start the jolly boat off round the table. Jolly boat wine coasters were sometimes supplied with wheeled carriages, supposedly for use ashore. At sea, these were dispensed allowing the flat-bottomed coasters to provide the necessary stability aboard a rolling ship.