Oneida Stainless Steel Teaspoon/Ovalsoup Spoon
Flatware (Spoon) · Oneida Ltd., an American company founded in 1880, known for mass-market flatware; this specific piece was manufactured in Indonesia.
Pattern: Modern Minimalist / Unidentified Oneida Budget Pattern (post-2000 production)
Type
Flatware (Spoon)
Maker
Oneida Ltd., an American company founded in 1880, known for mass-market flatware; this specific piece was manufactured in Indonesia.
Material
18/0 or 18/10 Stainless Steel; contains no actual silver content.
Dimensions
Standard teaspoon or oval soup spoon length (approx. 6 to 7 inches); weight approx. 35-50 grams.
Description
A utilitarian, contemporary stainless steel spoon featuring a sleek, minimalist profile. Designed for durability and daily use rather than ornamental display.
Key Features
Bold 'ONEIDA' branding, country of origin stamp, and lack of decorative engraving.
Material & Composition
18/0 or 18/10 Stainless Steel; contains no actual silver content.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish; unadorned, plain handle design typical of commercial or contemporary residential use.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'ONEIDA' in an oval cartouche and 'INDONESIA 5-17' (likely a production date or factory code). Lack of 'Sterling' or '925' confirms it is not precious metal.
Construction Details
Machine-stamped and die-cut from a cold-rolled stainless steel sheet; mass-produced industrial manufacturing.
Functional Features
Standard bowl for liquid consumption; tapered neck for ergonomic grip; rounded tip.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid stainless steel, one-piece construction with a flared flat-end handle for comfort.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality; smooth tumbled edges with machine-pressed markings.
Authentication Indicators
The markings clearly identify the item as stainless steel flatware; the light gray/blue tint of the metal is characteristic of steel rather than the warm white of silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Manufactured in Indonesia at an outsourced facility for Oneida Ltd.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern (21st Century); industrial mass production.
Age Estimate
Likely manufactured in May 2017 (indicated by the 5-17 stamp).
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift from silver heirloom flatware to affordable, dishwasher-safe stainless steel for middle-class households.
Condition Notes
Good condition with minor surface 'flea bites' and light scratches consistent with daily use and contact with other flatware.
Value Estimate
$1.00 - $3.00 (Standard replacement value for open-stock stainless flatware).
Care & Maintenance
Dishwasher safe; avoid prolonged soaking in water with high mineral content to prevent spotting.
Similar Pieces
International Silver, Reed & Barton, or Wallace stainless steel lines; distinguished by specific Oneida stamp and Indonesia origin.
Interesting Facts
Oneida was originally a religious communal society (the Oneida Community) before transitioning into a major cutlery manufacturer.