Daniel & Arter Electroplated Nickel Silver Serving Spoon
Flatware - Serving Spoon · Daniel & Arter (D&A), established in Birmingham, England, in the late 19th century. They were well-regarded manufacturers of high-quality electroplated nickel silver and silver-plated tableware.
Pattern: Standard Traditional Plain / Fiddle or Oval Back Pattern
Type
Flatware - Serving Spoon
Maker
Daniel & Arter (D&A), established in Birmingham, England, in the late 19th century. They were well-regarded manufacturers of high-quality electroplated nickel silver and silver-plated tableware.
Material
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS) / Base metal alloy (nickel, copper, zinc) plated with a layer of fine silver.
Dimensions
Estimated length 20–22 cm (8–8.5 inches); standard table/serving spoon weight approximately 50–70 grams.
Description
This piece features the back of a silver-plated serving spoon bowl manufactured by the notable Birmingham firm Daniel & Arter. The back exhibits clear manufacturer touchmarks stamped into the base metal prior to or following the plating process, featuring the signature D&A shield emblem.
Key Features
Distinctive 'D&A' shield maker's mark and linear electroplate quality stamps on the reverse heel.
Material & Composition
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS) / Base metal alloy (nickel, copper, zinc) plated with a layer of fine silver.
Finish & Decoration
Satin to polished silver finish with natural tarnish aging; smooth, unadorned back with an indented heel area.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped with the trademark 'D&A' inside a shield cartouche, followed by electroplate identification stamps ('EPNS' or 'NEVADA SILVER' / 'ENGLISH MAKE').
Construction Details
Die-struck base metal form finished with electroplating; single solid piece with an integrated handle and bowl design.
Functional Features
Smooth, rounded spoon bowl intended for serving or dining; balanced weight distribution.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid metal handle tapered smoothly down into the heel of the bowl; flat back profile.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial die-stamping with high precision; clean, legible hallmark strikes and smooth edge transition typical of British electroplate manufacture.
Authentication Indicators
Clear, authentic Daniel & Arter shield stamp and vintage EPNS marking style; natural patina accumulation.
Origin & Manufacturing
Birmingham, England (Nevada Works, Highgate Street).
Era & Period
Late Victorian to Early 20th Century / Edwardian (c. 1890–1920).
Age Estimate
Circa 1895–1915.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of formal dining in late 19th-century Britain, where EPNS allowed middle-class households to afford elegant, silver-appearing tableware.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition; visible surface tarnish and light surface scratches consistent with age and domestic use. No major denting seen on the visible section.
Value Estimate
$10 – $25 USD (Standard secondary market value for individual silver-plated flatware items).
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with warm water and mild soap. Use a gentle silver polish cream (such as Wright's) with a soft microfiber cloth; avoid abrasive pads to prevent wearing down the electroplated layer.
Similar Pieces
Victorian and Edwardian EPNS flatware by Walker & Hall, Elkington & Co., or Arthur Price.
Interesting Facts
Daniel & Arter were famous for marketing their proprietary alloy lines under trade names such as 'Nevada Silver' and 'Japanese Silver' to denote high-durability electroplated wares during the late Victorian era.