Wm. Rogers & Bro. Reinforce Excel Plate Serving Spoon
Flatware - Serving Spoon (Tablespoon) · Wm. Rogers & Bro., a prominent American manufacturer established by the Rogers brothers; eventually became a major brand under the International Silver Company (founded 1898). They were known for high-quality silver-plated wares for the mass market.
Pattern: Reinforced Excel Plate; likely a 1930s-1940s floral or scroll pattern (resembling 'Exquisite' or 'Gardenia' motifs). Many of these patterns were widely distributed and popular for bridal registries.
Type
Flatware - Serving Spoon (Tablespoon)
Maker
Wm. Rogers & Bro., a prominent American manufacturer established by the Rogers brothers; eventually became a major brand under the International Silver Company (founded 1898). They were known for high-quality silver-plated wares for the mass market.
Material
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver - EPNS); the base metal is a non-precious nickel alloy plated with a thin layer of pure silver. The 'Reinforce' stamp indicates extra plating on wear points.
Dimensions
Estimated length 8.5 to 9 inches (Serving/Tablespoon size). Weight is approximately 60-80 grams; heavier than modern stainless steel due to the dense nickel-brass base alloy.
Description
This is a classic example of American mid-century silver-plated flatware. Produced by the legendary Wm. Rogers & Bro. line of International Silver, this serving spoon features the 'Reinforce' technology intended to make silver plate last longer through daily use. The design is elegant, featuring a clean handle with a burst of floral detail at the tip, making it a versatile addition to any vintage table setting.
Key Features
The 'Reinforced Excel Plate' stamp is the primary diagnostic feature, signifying a higher grade of consumer plating. The 'IS' logo confirms its manufacture under the International Silver umbrella.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver - EPNS); the base metal is a non-precious nickel alloy plated with a thin layer of pure silver. The 'Reinforce' stamp indicates extra plating on wear points.
Finish & Decoration
High-polished mirror finish with a shell-like floral motif at the terminal. The handle features clipped corners and a central ridge, typical of the transitional style between Art Deco and Mid-Century traditional floral designs.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'WM. ROGERS & BRO.' followed by 'REINFORCE EXCEL PLATE' and the 'IS' (International Silver) logo. These are quality marks rather than hallmarks, as they do not indicate precious metal purity.
Construction Details
Machine-stamped/die-struck from a sheet of nickel silver and then electroplated. This was an industrial mass-production method that allowed for high uniformity and affordability.
Functional Features
Large oval bowl designed for serving vegetables, starches, or casseroles. The 'Reinforce' feature specifically refers to an extra thickness of silver at the heel of the bowl to prevent 'plate loss' from friction against tables.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid metal handle (not hollow); integrated one-piece construction. The terminal is flared and decorated with a stamped floral crest for easy gripping during service.
Craftsmanship Details
Excellent industrial craftsmanship. The die-striking is deep and detailed, and the electroplating is even, reflecting the high standards of 20th-century Connecticut silver factories.
Authentication Indicators
Stamps are clear and crisp; the weight and cold feel of the metal are consistent with nickel silver base. The lack of 'Sterling' or '925' marks confirms it is silver plate.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America, likely Meriden, Connecticut (the headquarters of International Silver Co. and the 'Silver City').
Era & Period
Late Art Deco / Early Mid-Century (c. 1930-1950). This period combined industrial streamlining with a return to traditional floral ornamentation popular in American homes.
Age Estimate
Circa 1935-1948. The 'IS' mark appearing with Rogers branding is characteristic of the mid-20th century consolidation period of the International Silver Company.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'democratization' of silver in the American home, where middle-class families could enjoy the look and feel of fine dining without the expense of solid sterling.
Condition Notes
Very Good; the spoon shows high luster. There is minor surface scratching consistent with light use. No visible 'bleeding' (where the base metal shows through) at the heel or terminal.
Value Estimate
Market value is $5-$15 USD. These are commonly purchased to fill in missing pieces of family sets rather than as high-value investments.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream like Wright's. Avoid the dishwasher, as high heat and harsh detergents will eventually strip the thin silver plating and expose the underlying base metal.
Similar Pieces
Gorham Silver Plate, Oneida Community Plate, or Reed & Barton electroplated pieces. These often feature similar floral motifs but differ in weight and specific manufacturer stamps.
Interesting Facts
The 'Rogers' name was so famous in the 19th and 20th centuries that dozens of companies tried to use the name to capitalize on its reputation for quality, leading to many legal battles.