Hanseatische Silberwarenfabrik (Hansen) German Silverplate Spoon
Flatware (Spoon) · Hanseatische Silberwarenfabrik (Hansen & Co.), Bremen, Germany. Founded in the late 19th century, the company became prominent for high-quality hotel and domestic silverware in Northern Germany.
Pattern: Unidentified simple rounded pattern, likely a commercial or standard heavy-duty domestic line. These pieces were often sold by the dozen for institutional use.
Type
Flatware (Spoon)
Maker
Hanseatische Silberwarenfabrik (Hansen & Co.), Bremen, Germany. Founded in the late 19th century, the company became prominent for high-quality hotel and domestic silverware in Northern Germany.
Material
Silver Plate on a base metal (likely Alpacca/Nickel Silver). The '100' mark indicates that 100 grams of pure silver were used to plate 24 pieces of flatware (usually 12 spoons and 12 forks).
Dimensions
Standard teaspoon or coffee spoon size, approximately 12-14 cm (4.5-5.5 inches). Weight typically ranges between 20-30 grams depending on exact dimensions.
Description
A robust example of German industrial silverplate. While not solid silver, this piece represents the high standards of German metalworking, using a heavy plating (grade 100) intended to survive several generations of use. The bowl shows significant micro-scratching, suggesting it was cleaned with abrasive pads rather than proper silver polish.
Key Features
The '100' stamp is the most diagnostic feature, identifying it as high-grade German plate rather than sterling silver. The 'HH' mark identifies the specific Bremen-based manufacturer.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate on a base metal (likely Alpacca/Nickel Silver). The '100' mark indicates that 100 grams of pure silver were used to plate 24 pieces of flatware (usually 12 spoons and 12 forks).
Finish & Decoration
Satin finish with heavy surface scratching from abrasive cleaning. The design is utilitarian with no visible ornamentation on the bowl reverse. Likely Art Deco or Mid-Century influence based on the clean lines.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The marks include: 1) Initial 'HS' or stylized 'H' for Hanseatische Silberwarenfabrik; 2) A small crest/shield mark common to Bremen makers; 3) 'HH' in a hexagonal cartouche; 4) '100' indicating the thickness of the silver plating.
Construction Details
Machine-stamped from a sheet of base metal (nickel silver) and then electroplated. This is a industrial manufacturing process designed for durability rather than hand-wrought artistry.
Functional Features
A deep, oval bowl designed for stirring or eating. The thick plating (100 grade) was specifically intended to prevent the base metal from showing through after years of daily use.
Handle & Grip Details
Tapered flat handle (partially out of frame). Solid core construction, as plated items do not use hollow-handle technology common in sterling knives.
Craftsmanship Details
Excellent industrial quality. The stamps are crisp and centered. Despite being a factory item, the balance and thickness of the metal are superior to modern 'disposable' stainless steel flatware.
Authentication Indicators
The absence of the '800' or '925' mark along with the presence of a '100' numerical mark confirms this is silverplate and not solid silver. The stamps are clear and machine-struck, consistent with period production.
Origin & Manufacturing
Bremen, Germany. Produced in a large industrial factory specializing in massive silverplate production for the hospitality industry and middle-class households.
Era & Period
Early to Mid-20th Century (c. 1920-1950). The font and stamp style are consistent with the German Modernist/Functionalist era following the First World War.
Age Estimate
Circa 1930-1950. The marking system of '100' became the industry standard in Germany during this period for high-quality plated goods.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the German 'Sachlichkeit' (objectivity/utility) movement, where beauty was found in the function and durability of everyday objects produced for the mass market.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. The piece shows significant surface wear and heavy scratching. There is no obvious 'bleeding' (base metal showing through), which speaks to the quality of the '100' plating thickess.
Value Estimate
$2 - $10 USD. Silverplated spoons from this era have little scrap value and are primarily valued as replacements for existing sets or as functional vintage flatware.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a non-abrasive silver cream (like Wright's). Avoid steel wool or green scrubbing pads, which have caused the heavy visible scratching on this specimen. Store in a soft cloth to prevent further abrasion.
Similar Pieces
WMF (Wuerttembergische Metallwarenfabrik) 90/100 plate, Wellner Silverplate. These are competitors that used similar plating thickness standards but different maker's marks.
Interesting Facts
The German '100' and '90' marks are often confused by novices for silver purity (like 925), but they actually refer to the weight of silver used in the electroplating bath for a standard set of 24 pieces.