Scottish Thistle Pattern Sterling Silver Teaspoon by Various Makers
Flatware - Spoon (Teaspoon) · Typically manufactured by Scottish silversmiths such as Hamilton & Inches, or prominent British/American firms producing regional souvenir and themed silverware.
Pattern: Thistle Pattern, a classic Scottish motif featuring the national flower prominently displayed on the terminal.
Type
Flatware - Spoon (Teaspoon)
Maker
Typically manufactured by Scottish silversmiths such as Hamilton & Inches, or prominent British/American firms producing regional souvenir and themed silverware.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity), standard composition of 92.5 percent silver and 7.5 percent copper for durability.
Dimensions
Standard teaspoon dimensions, approximately 13 to 15 cm in length, weighing roughly 15 to 25 grams.
Description
An exquisite Scottish thistle pattern sterling silver teaspoon featuring a beautifully detailed, high-relief thistle blossom and foliage design gracing the terminal. The handle tapers smoothly toward a classic bowl, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship typical of British regional silversmithing during the late Victorian period.
Key Features
High-relief repoussé thistle terminal, solid sterling silver composition, and classic regional Scottish design symbolism.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity), standard composition of 92.5 percent silver and 7.5 percent copper for durability.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish with detailed repoussé and chased thistle blossom motif at the handle terminal, embodying Scottish arts and crafts or traditional heraldic styling.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually bears standard British hallmarks including the lion passant for sterling, a city assay mark (such as Edinburgh castle or Glasgow tree), and a date letter stamp on the reverse.
Construction Details
Die-struck or cast handle with the bowl subsequently formed and attached, reflecting traditional 19th- to 20th-century silver manufacturing techniques.
Functional Features
Designed for stirring tea or consuming soft desserts; ergonomic tapering handle fitting comfortably in the hand.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid sterling silver handle featuring a flared, flattened terminal with high-relief thistle decoration providing both visual appeal and tactile grip.
Craftsmanship Details
Fine hand-chasing accents over a die-struck base, demonstrating crisp botanical detailing and smooth edge finishing.
Authentication Indicators
Crisp striking of the relief pattern, appropriate weight-to-size ratio, and expected surface wear patterns consistent with genuine antique sterling silver flatware.
Origin & Manufacturing
United Kingdom (specifically Scotland or major English assay offices producing Scottish-themed goods), renowned for high standards of silversmithing.
Era & Period
Victorian to Edwardian Era (c. 1880-1910), a time when patriotic and regional botanical motifs were exceptionally popular in British decorative arts.
Age Estimate
Circa 1890-1920, based on the styling of the thistle motif and common production periods for regional British flatware.
Cultural Significance
Represents Scottish heritage, national identity, and the Victorian passion for botanical symbolism and regional souvenirs.
Condition Notes
Very Good vintage condition with minor surface micro-scratches consistent with gentle use and age; strong structural integrity and clear botanical details.
Value Estimate
Estimated market value between $30 to $80 USD per spoon, depending heavily on the specific maker, exact weight, and current collector demand.
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash immediately after use with mild soap and warm water; dry with a soft microfiber cloth. Polish occasionally with a quality cream like Wright's Silver Cream and store in an anti-tarnish cloth.
Similar Pieces
Whiting Manufacturing Co. Lily pattern, Gorham Chantilly, or other floral and botanical-themed Victorian flatware lines.
Interesting Facts
The thistle is the ancient national flower of Scotland, legendarily saving sleeping Scottish clansmen from a Viking ambush when an invader stepped on its prickles.