International Silver Co. Garland Pattern Silverplate Teaspoon
Flatware (Teaspoon) · International Silver Co. (IS), a major American conglomerate formed in 1898 in Meriden, Connecticut. They consolidated many heritage New England silversmiths and were the world's largest manufacturer of silver and silverplate during the 20th century.
Pattern: Garland (also known as 1847 Rogers Bros. Garland). Introduced in 1965. This was a popular mid-priced consumer pattern that is now discontinued.
Type
Flatware (Teaspoon)
Maker
International Silver Co. (IS), a major American conglomerate formed in 1898 in Meriden, Connecticut. They consolidated many heritage New England silversmiths and were the world's largest manufacturer of silver and silverplate during the 20th century.
Material
Silverplate (Electroplated Nickel Silver - EPNS). This is a base metal alloy, typically nickel, copper, and zinc, covered with a thin electrolytic layer of pure silver. It contains no significant scrap silver value.
Dimensions
Standard teaspoon length: approximately 6 to 6.25 inches. Weight: approximately 30-35 grams. It is typical for mass-produced American kitchen flatware of the mid-20th century.
Description
This is a quintessential piece of American mid-century silverplated flatware. The Garland pattern blends classic floral elegance with the durability required for everyday family use. The heavy tarnish seen in the photo is typical for silverplate that has been stored in open air, but the pattern remains crisp.
Key Features
The distinctive 'Garland' floral cluster at the tip and the secondary floral spray at the shoulder where the handle meets the bowl. The weight is lighter than sterling equivalents.
Material & Composition
Silverplate (Electroplated Nickel Silver - EPNS). This is a base metal alloy, typically nickel, copper, and zinc, covered with a thin electrolytic layer of pure silver. It contains no significant scrap silver value.
Finish & Decoration
Semi-matte to bright finish with floral repoussé-style decoration at the tip and shoulder. The design features a central flower head (likely a daisy or chrysanthemum) surrounded by a scroll-work garland. The style is 1960s interpretation of Neo-Victorian floral motifs.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually stamped on the reverse with '1847 Rogers Bros. IS' or 'International Silver'. The 'IS' signifies International Silver, and '1847 Rogers Bros.' is the primary brand name used for their premium plated lines.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured through die-striking. The pattern was stamped into the metal blanks under high pressure, then die-cut and electroplated in large batches.
Functional Features
Standard oval bowl for stirring or eating soft foods. The flared handle offers a comfortable grip, and the reinforced shoulder provides durability against bending.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid metal flat handle integrated with the bowl (one-piece construction). The handle tapers from a wide, decorated terminal to a narrower 'neck' before flaring slightly at the bowl.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard industrial craftsmanship. The symmetry and detail are consistent, but it lacks the 'soul' of hand-chased pieces. The edges are machine-finished, resulting in a uniform but somewhat blunt profile.
Authentication Indicators
Pattern recognition matches the International Silver Garland catalog. The depth of the die-stamping and the specific gray-blue hue of the tarnish are hallmark indicators of silverplate rather than solid sterling.
Origin & Manufacturing
Manufactured in the United States, likely in Connecticut at one of the International Silver Company's industrial factories.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Late 20th Century (1960s). While the floral design is traditional, the manufacturing technique and metal gauge are characteristic of 1960s domestic consumer goods.
Age Estimate
Circa 1965-1975 based on the pattern introduction date and the level of surface oxidation and wear.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-WWII American trend toward 'affordable luxury,' where middle-class families could own large sets of elegant-looking flatware that mimicked the appearance of expensive sterling sets.
Condition Notes
Fair condition. Significant surface oxidation (tarnish) is present throughout the bowl and handle. There are visible surface scratches consistent with use. No visible 'plate loss' (where the base metal shows through), but cleaning would be required to assess the integrity of the silver layer.
Value Estimate
Low market value. Individual teaspoons typically sell for $1 to $5 at antique malls or online. Their value is primarily functional for completing sets rather than as a precious metal investment.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver polish like Wright’s Silver Cream. Avoid abrasive pads which can strip the thin silver plating. Store in a tarnish-resistant cloth or chest. Do not put in the dishwasher, as high heat and harsh detergents can damage the plating.
Similar Pieces
Oneida 'Damask Rose' or Gorham 'Chantilly' (though the latter is usually sterling). Collectors often confuse this with other Rogers-branded floral patterns like 'First Love'.
Interesting Facts
The '1847 Rogers Bros.' brand name was so valuable that International Silver continued using it for over 80 years after the company was formed, capitalizing on the Rogers family's reputation for high-quality plating.