Coin Silver Flatware Serving Piece
Flatware · Unknown American or regional silversmith marked with 'B & VI' or similar maker punch, representing 19th-century domestic American or provincial silver manufacturing traditions.
Pattern: Plain utility or fiddle-type handle pattern typical of early 19th-century American flatware, un-named production status.
Type
Flatware
Maker
Unknown American or regional silversmith marked with 'B & VI' or similar maker punch, representing 19th-century domestic American or provincial silver manufacturing traditions.
Material
Coin Silver (.900 fine silver), commonly utilized in the United States prior to the widespread adoption of the .925 sterling standard following the Silver Purchase Act.
Dimensions
Standard sizing for a mid-19th century flatware serving utensil or large spoon, estimated length around 18-22 cm with weight proportionate to heavy coin silver gauge.
Description
An authentic piece of early American flatware, forged from coin silver and bearing a distinctive maker's mark enclosed in a serrated rectangle. The surface shows fine age-consistent scratches and a warm, genuine tarnish indicative of decades of handling and careful preservation.
Key Features
Serrated rectangular maker's punch enclosing 'B & VI' lettering, heavy-gauge coin silver composition, plain functional handle form.
Material & Composition
Coin Silver (.900 fine silver), commonly utilized in the United States prior to the widespread adoption of the .925 sterling standard following the Silver Purchase Act.
Finish & Decoration
Plain polished surface with minimal or no overt decorative chasing, exhibiting utilitarian Federal or Early Victorian domestic styling.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Impressed maker punch reading 'B & VI' enclosed within a notched or serrated rectangular cartouche stamp.
Construction Details
Hand-forged and die-rolled coin silver, typical of mid-19th-century American silversmithing practices before fully automated mass production took over.
Functional Features
Utilitarian flatware handle transition tapering into a broad spoon bowl or flat serving blade terminal.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid coin silver flat handle with squared shoulders tapering gracefully toward the terminal end.
Craftsmanship Details
Traditional hand-hammered and rolled coin silver construction exhibiting classic nineteenth-century American utilitarian standards.
Authentication Indicators
Authentic period hallmarks with appropriate punch depression depth into the metal, natural wear patterns on high-friction surfaces, and genuine coin silver patination.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States, likely produced by a regional jeweler or local silversmith utilizing melted down gold and silver coins.
Era & Period
Federal Period or Early Victorian Era (c. 1820-1860), indicated by the punch style and coin silver alloy composition.
Age Estimate
Circa 1830-1860, based on the font style within the serrated rectangular maker punch and the typical coin silver standard.
Cultural Significance
Represents the domestic dining culture of 19th-century America, reflecting the transition from localized artisanal silversmithing to larger industrial manufacturing.
Condition Notes
Good antique condition. Moderate surface scratching and natural tarnish consistent with age and use. Structure remains solid with no major dents, deep gouges, or repair marks.
Value Estimate
Estimated between $40 to $150 USD depending on exact weight, precise attribution of the maker mark, and collector demand for regional American coin silver.
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash gently with mild dish soap and warm water. Polish occasionally with a quality silver cream like Wright's using straight linear strokes. Store in a tarnish-resistant flannel pouch.
Similar Pieces
Mid-19th century coin silver tablespoons and serving ladles produced by regional American silversmiths along the Eastern Seaboard.
Interesting Facts
Prior to the 1860s, American silversmiths frequently melted down Spanish milled dollars and other circulating silver coins to create flatware, resulting in the distinct .900 coin silver standard.