Silver Plated Teaspoon by Wm. A. Rogers
Flatware - Spoon · Wm. A. Rogers, an American silverplated flatware manufacturer known for producing affordable and accessible silverware, later absorbed into Oneida Limited.
Pattern: Unidentified floral or traditional scroll pattern, likely mid-20th century production.
Type
Flatware - Spoon
Maker
Wm. A. Rogers, an American silverplated flatware manufacturer known for producing affordable and accessible silverware, later absorbed into Oneida Limited.
Material
Silver Plated (EPNS - Electroplated Nickel Silver), featuring a base metal of nickel brass or white metal alloy coated with a thin layer of pure silver.
Dimensions
Standard teaspoon dimensions, approximately 15 cm (6 inches) in length, weighing roughly 20 to 30 grams.
Description
A standard silver-plated teaspoon featuring heavy historical tarnish, golden-brown oxidation patina, and surface scratches. The back of the handle clearly displays the maker's electroplate authenticity stamp.
Key Features
Clear manufacturer stamp visible on the back of the handle stem; classic domestic spoon form with advanced tarnish patina.
Material & Composition
Silver Plated (EPNS - Electroplated Nickel Silver), featuring a base metal of nickel brass or white metal alloy coated with a thin layer of pure silver.
Finish & Decoration
Polished finish with minor decorative fluting or beading along the handle stem. Traditional domestic flatware styling.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped text on the handle reverse reading "ARGYLE A1 PLUS ONE PLATE" or similar Wm. A. Rogers plating mark indicators.
Construction Details
Machine-stamped and die-rolled from sheet metal with electroplated silver coating.
Functional Features
Standard domestic teaspoon intended for stirring tea or coffee and general table use.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid silver-plated handle integrated into the bowl, featuring a slightly tapered shape with molded decorative lines.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard mass-produced commercial flatware utilizing industrial stamping, die-cutting, and commercial electroplating techniques.
Authentication Indicators
Legible maker stamp indicating silver plating rather than solid sterling. The lack of standard sterling (.925) marks confirms its silver-plated nature.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States, manufactured by Wm. A. Rogers / Oneida Ltd.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (c. 1930-1960)
Age Estimate
Mid-20th century, circa 1940-1960, based on the typography of the maker's stamp and heavy tarnish development.
Cultural Significance
Represents the mass-market democratization of silver-plated tableware for everyday American middle-class households during the mid-20th century.
Condition Notes
Moderate to heavy tarnish (sulfide patina) with orange and blue oxidation tones. Surface scratches and minor wear consistent with everyday use and storage over decades. Structurally sound.
Value Estimate
Low market value (typically $1 to $5 USD per spoon), valued primarily as a utilitarian everyday antique or for craft/upcycling projects.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a dedicated silver cream like Wright's or Hagerty using a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive scouring pads to prevent wearing through the thin silver plate layer.
Similar Pieces
Common silver-plated teaspoons by International Silver, Oneida, and WM. Rogers & Son.
Interesting Facts
Wm. A. Rogers was not related to the famous Rogers brothers of Hartford, but acquired the right to use the Rogers name, leading to widespread production of popular household flatware.