Holmes & Edwards / International Silver Co. Silverplated Teaspoon
Flatware (Spoon - Teaspoon) · Holmes & Edwards, a division of the International Silver Company, known for innovative insets like Inlaid Silverplate to prevent wear at high-friction points.
Pattern: Art Deco or transitional scroll pattern popular in mid-20th-century flatware lines.
Type
Flatware (Spoon - Teaspoon)
Maker
Holmes & Edwards, a division of the International Silver Company, known for innovative insets like Inlaid Silverplate to prevent wear at high-friction points.
Material
Silver plate over a base metal alloy, specifically marked as 'Stan. Chrome plate' or standard silver plate with a chromium or steel-reinforced backing, typical of mid-century utility flatware.
Dimensions
Standard teaspoon dimensions, approximately 15 cm (6 inches) in length, weighing roughly 25 to 30 grams.
Description
A utilitarian silverplated teaspoon featuring a decorative handle with swirling fluted details at the terminal. The reverse of the handle bears an industrial stamp indicating the specialized plating process. It represents a durable, mass-produced piece of everyday table service from the mid-20th century.
Key Features
Distinctive fluted scroll terminal, visible reverse-handle manufacturing stamp, standard teaspoon bowl form.
Material & Composition
Silver plate over a base metal alloy, specifically marked as 'Stan. Chrome plate' or standard silver plate with a chromium or steel-reinforced backing, typical of mid-century utility flatware.
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver plate with molded fluting and scroll motifs at the handle terminal, featuring a stepped Art Deco or neoclassical aesthetic.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped text on the handle back reading 'STAN. CHROME PLATE' or similar proprietary plating/base metal indicator, identifying the manufacturing process and materials.
Construction Details
Mass-produced via industrial die-stamping and cold-rolling techniques typical of 20th-century American silverplate manufacturing.
Functional Features
Standard bowl and handle designed for everyday dining, stirring hot beverages, or measuring.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid metal handle with integrated decorative fluting and a tapered, ergonomic grip.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial machine-stamped and polished, exhibiting clean symmetry and reliable uniformity suitable for mass consumer markets.
Authentication Indicators
Clear manufacturer and material stamps on the reverse handle, standard die-struck weight and proportions for mid-century American flatware.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States, manufactured by the International Silver Company or affiliated factories in Connecticut.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century / Post-War Era (c. 1940s-1960s), reflecting streamlined manufacturing and durable everyday tableware.
Age Estimate
Circa 1940 to 1960 based on the industrial stamp style and alloy designation.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the post-WWII democratization of tableware, where stylish, durable silverplated flatware became accessible to the average middle-class household.
Condition Notes
Good used condition with minor surface scratches, slight tarnish spotting, and normal wear consistent with age and regular use. Plating remains largely intact.
Value Estimate
Low market value, typically ranging from $2 to $5 per individual spoon, primarily sold as replacement pieces for existing flatware sets.
Care & Maintenance
Wash by hand in warm soapy water with a soft cloth, dry thoroughly immediately to prevent water spots, and use a mild silver polish periodically to maintain shine.
Similar Pieces
Standard silverplated teaspoons from contemporary makers such as Oneida, Wm. Rogers & Son, and Community Plate.
Interesting Facts
Makers like Holmes & Edwards were pioneers in patenting reinforcement techniques for silverplate, such as embedding blocks of sterling silver at major wear points before plating the entire piece.