International Silver Co. Revelation Pattern Silver Plate Teaspoon
Flatware · International Silver Co. (IS), a massive American conglomerate formed in 1898 in Meriden, Connecticut. It unified many prestigious silversmiths and produced a wide range of goods from premium sterling to mass-market silver plate.
Pattern: Revelation; introduced in 1938. It is currently discontinued from active production but remains widely available on the secondary replacement market.
Type
Flatware
Maker
International Silver Co. (IS), a massive American conglomerate formed in 1898 in Meriden, Connecticut. It unified many prestigious silversmiths and produced a wide range of goods from premium sterling to mass-market silver plate.
Material
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver). The base metal is a non-precious nickel-copper-zinc alloy (nickel silver) which has been electrochemically coated with a thin layer of fine silver.
Dimensions
Standard Teaspoon size, approximately 6 to 6.25 inches (15-16 cm) in length. Weight is estimated at 30-40 grams, providing the heavier, substantial hand-feel common in plated pieces over hollow-handle sterling.
Description
A classic example of American mid-century utility, the Revelation pattern by International Silver offers a glimpse into the democratization of elegant dining. While not made of solid precious metal, it was designed to provide the look and feel of luxury for the average household. The pattern balances traditional scrolling with a tapered, modern neck.
Key Features
Distinct 'REVELATION' stamp which serves as both the pattern name and the brand mark; relief-molded floral terminal on the handle; high-luster finish.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver). The base metal is a non-precious nickel-copper-zinc alloy (nickel silver) which has been electrochemically coated with a thin layer of fine silver.
Finish & Decoration
The item features a polished mirror-finish bowl and a decorative handle in the Art Deco/Late Art Nouveau style. The ornamentation includes stylized scrolls and floral motifs embossed on the handle terminal, typical of Mid-Century traditional aesthetic.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The reverse of the handle is stamped with 'REVELATION SILVER PLATE' in block capital letters. This is a trade name trademarked and used by International Silver Co. for this specific line of silver-plated flatware.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured via die-striking. The spoon is stamped out of a sheet of base metal under high pressure between two heavy steel dies, then polished and electroplated.
Functional Features
Standard oval bowl for multipurpose dining; flared flat handle designed for ergonomic grip and weighted balance.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid construction flatware handle, integrated with the bowl as a single unit. Feature raised relief patterns on the front face; the reverse as shown is plain to accommodate marks.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial manufacturing. The depth of the embossing and the smoothness of the finish indicate better quality than modern mass-produced stainless steel, though it lacks the hand-finished detail of artisan silver.
Authentication Indicators
The 'Silver Plate' stamp is the most definitive indicator, confirming this is not sterling silver. The die-struck lettering is crisp and consistent with IS factory standards.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States; Meriden, Connecticut. Manufactured in one of the many factories owned by the International Silver Company, the world's largest manufacturer of silverware at the time.
Era & Period
Late Art Deco / Art Moderne transition (c. 1930s-1940s). The pattern reflects the late 1930s trend of blending floral organic shapes with the streamlined silhouettes of the machine age.
Age Estimate
Circa 1938-1950. The pattern introduction in 1938 and the style of the block lettering 'Silver Plate' stamp are consistent with mid-20th century production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Sunday Best' culture of middle-class America, where silver-plated sets were essential for social standing and hosting, even if solid sterling was out of reach financially.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. The image shows moderate surface tarnish (patina) with some rainbow oxidation. There are visible 'heel' wear marks and micro-scratches from use. Some potential silver loss (bleeding) where the base metal might show through on high-friction areas, but overall integrity is sound.
Value Estimate
$2.00 - $8.00 USD per individual teaspoon on the secondary market. Value is primarily functional for those completing sets rather than investment-grade as bullion.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream (e.g., Wright's) using a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive sponges which will strip the thin silver plating and reveal the yellow/grey base metal. Store in a dry environment to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with 1847 Rogers Bros 'Adoration' or 'First Love' patterns, which share similar floral/scroll motifs but carry different maker's marks.
Interesting Facts
The Revelation line was often sold as a more affordable alternative to IS's premier brands like 1847 Rogers Bros, making it a very common 'everyday' set for families during and after WWII.