How do you tell it it is silver plate or sterling.

Often times listing will have a statement by the seller such as ” I think it is sterling, but is marked EPNS. In American silver products, if it is not marked STERLING, chances are that it is not. European and English have different hallmarks. English(British) markings use the a Lion to designate real silver. There are some very good guides on the internet that distinguish these markings. However, American markings are if it is Sterling, it says sterling.

EPNS stands for Electroplated Nickel Silver (not sterling or solid)

Plated anywhere on the marking, means that it is plated and not solid.

Silver on Copper means that it is silver plated on copper (many of the tea sets and trays are made like this).