APS Inc. Georgia 'A Peachy Place To Be' Silver-Plated Spinner Souvenir Spoon
Flatware (Souvenir Spoon / Collector Spoon) · APS Inc. (Associated Premium Services). They are a mass-market producer of souvenir and commemorative merchandise, primarily active in the late 20th century in the novelty and travel gift industry.
Pattern: Spinner Collectors Spoon series; specifically the Georgia Peach edition. Introduced in the late 20th century as part of a regional US travel series.
Type
Flatware (Souvenir Spoon / Collector Spoon)
Maker
APS Inc. (Associated Premium Services). They are a mass-market producer of souvenir and commemorative merchandise, primarily active in the late 20th century in the novelty and travel gift industry.
Material
Silver-plated base metal (likely nickel silver or steel). The finial features a digital/decal print under a resin/plastic epoxy dome. It is not solid sterling silver.
Dimensions
Approximately 4.5 to 5 inches in length with a weight of roughly 25-35 grams. This is standard for a demitasse-sized souvenir spoon.
Description
A classic উদাহরণ of American roadside kitsch, this APS Inc. souvenir spoon celebrates the state of Georgia. It features a bright, polished silver-plated finish and a distinctive kinetic 'spinner' finial. The center of the spinner displays a vibrant peach graphic, serving as a nostalgic memento for travelers. It is housed in its original clear plastic acrylic presentation case with blue cardboard backing.
Key Features
Kinetic spinning center, vibrant decal graphic, twisted stem, and original retail packaging. The 'APS' branding on the packaging and the peach-themed slogan are the primary identifiers.
Material & Composition
Silver-plated base metal (likely nickel silver or steel). The finial features a digital/decal print under a resin/plastic epoxy dome. It is not solid sterling silver.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with a twisted stem design. The decorative finial consists of a rotating circular disk (spinner) featuring a Georgia Peach illustration, the state name, and the slogan 'A Peachy Place To Be.'
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually found on the back of the bowl or stem; likely stamped 'APS Inc.' or 'Silver Plate.' No official precious metal assay marks (like the lion passant) are present, as it is a plated novelty item.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured and die-struck. The 'spinner' is a secondary component attached via a simple pin hinge to the circular frame at the top of the handle. Chrome or silver electroplating applied post-construction.
Functional Features
Mechanical kinetic finial (the 'spinner' spins 360 degrees). It is intended for display rather than culinary use.
Handle & Grip Details
Twisted wire-style stem made of plated metal. The top features an integrated circular housing for the rotating medal. Thin and ergonomic for light handling but prone to bending if used as a tool.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced industrial quality. The plating is uniform but thin; the spinner mechanism is a simple mechanical assembly typical of high-volume giftware.
Authentication Indicators
APS Inc. branding on the backing card, late 20th-century novelty spoon construction, and the absence of sterling silver marks which confirms its status as a plated souvenir.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in China or Taiwan for the US company APS Inc. These items were widely distributed in airport gift shops and rest stops throughout Georgia, USA.
Era & Period
Modern / Late 20th Century (Post-1980s). This era saw a revival in novelty souvenir spoons featuring kinetic parts and colorful decals.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-2010. The typeface and epoxy dome technology are consistent with high-volume novelty production from this period.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Road Trip' culture of the United States. Such items were staples of the regional identity marketing found in highway travel centers and tourist attractions before the digital age.
Condition Notes
Mint/Excellent (New Old Stock). The item remains in its original protective retail packaging. No visible tarnish or plate loss. The acrylic case shows minor shelf wear/scuffs.
Value Estimate
$5.00 - $15.00 USD. Value is driven by nostalgic or regional interest rather than metal content or artisan craftsmanship.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a very soft micro-fiber cloth. Avoid abrasive silver dips or creams which can strip the thin plating. Keep in the original case to prevent the epoxy dome on the peach graphic from yellowing or scratching.
Similar Pieces
Fort Wayne souvenir spoons, Enesco collector spoons, or various generic sterling silver state spoons from the early 1900s which would be hand-engraved and solid silver.
Interesting Facts
Souvenir spoons gained massive popularity in the 1890s following the Chicago World's Fair. By the late 20th century, companies like APS Inc. modernized the tradition by adding moving parts (spinners) and full-color graphics to appeal to younger collectors.