International Silver Co. 'Joan of Arc' Pattern Sterling Silver Teaspoon
Flatware (Teaspoon) · International Silver Co., Meriden, Connecticut. Founded in 1898 through the merger of many top New England silversmiths, it became the world's largest silver manufacturer, known for maintaining high standards in both sterling and plated wares.
Pattern: Joan of Arc, introduced in 1940. It is one of International Silver's most famous and long-running patterns, remaining in production for decades due to its classic French Provincial styling.
Type
Flatware (Teaspoon)
Maker
International Silver Co., Meriden, Connecticut. Founded in 1898 through the merger of many top New England silversmiths, it became the world's largest silver manufacturer, known for maintaining high standards in both sterling and plated wares.
Material
Sterling Silver (solid .925 silver). The piece is entirely silver with no base metal; however, the surrounding items in the image (knife handle) may contain stainless steel components.
Dimensions
Standard teaspoon length approximately 6 inches (15.2 cm). Typical weight for this pattern is approximately 30-35 grams (roughly 1 troy ounce).
Description
The Joan of Arc teaspoon is a quintessential example of American mid-century sterling. Its design strikes a perfect balance between ornate traditionalism and the clean-lined functionalism of the 1940s. The gracefully curved handle and subtle shell motifs provide a sense of timeless elegance suitable for both formal and casual dining.
Key Features
Scrolled border with delicate shell tip; fiddle-shaped handle; 'International Sterling' hallmark; French Provincial aesthetic; ovate bowl shape.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (solid .925 silver). The piece is entirely silver with no base metal; however, the surrounding items in the image (knife handle) may contain stainless steel components.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish with French Provincial decorative elements. The pattern features scrolled edges, a subtle shell motif at the tip, and a fiddle-shaped handle silhouette. It is characterized by its clean, flowing lines typical of the mid-20th-century revival of Rococo styles.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The reverse of the handle is stamped 'INTERNATIONAL STERLING' and 'Joan of Arc'. The sterling mark indicates a guaranteed fineness of 925/1000. No date letters are typically used on American pieces from this era.
Construction Details
Die-struck from a single blank of sterling silver. This machine-manufactured method ensures architectural precision and pattern consistency. The transition from the neck to the bowl is tapered for strength.
Functional Features
Ovate bowl designed for general dining use (tea, coffee, desserts). The handle curvature is designed for ergonomic grip and balance during use.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid sterling silver handle. It features a flared end with a decorative border and a central recessed panel that is ideal for monogramming, though this specific piece appears unmonogrammed.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality die-striking with excellent detail retention in the scrolls. The edges are well-finished and the bowl is evenly thinned towards the tip for a comfortable 'mouth feel'.
Authentication Indicators
Clear, crisp 'International Sterling' stamping is consistent with authentic factory production. Wear patterns on the back of the bowl and handle tip are consistent with age and stacking in a silver chest.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America; manufactured in Meriden, Connecticut, once known as the 'Silver City' due to the concentration of major factories.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / French Provincial Revival (c. 1940-1960). While produced mid-century, the design draws heavily from 18th-century French Rococo aesthetics.
Age Estimate
Circa 1940-1970. The sharp detail suggests an earlier production run before die wear occurred, but the pattern was extremely popular throughout the mid-20th century.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-depression boom in American silver ownership where middle-class families sought sterling sets as symbols of domestic stability and refined taste.
Condition Notes
Good condition. There is visible surface oxidation (tarnish) and 'buffing' or light scratches from use. No significant dents, bowl 'flea bites,' or disposal damage are visible. Grade: Very Good.
Value Estimate
$35.00 - $55.00 USD for a single teaspoon on the secondary market, largely driven by the current spot price of silver plus a premium for the popular pattern.
Care & Maintenance
Polish with a high-quality cream like Wright's Silver Cream. Store in tarnish-resistant Pacific Silvercloth to prevent oxidation. Avoid dishwasher use, as high heat and harsh detergents can pit the silver surface.
Similar Pieces
Wallace 'Grand Baroque' (more ornate), Gorham 'Chantilly' (simpler scroll), or Lunt 'French Provincial'. Joan of Arc is often preferred for being more substantial than Chantilly but less busy than Grand Baroque.
Interesting Facts
The 'Joan of Arc' pattern was so successful that International Silver marketed it as a 'lifetime' pattern, encouraging brides to register for it because it would never go out of style. It remains one of the most frequently searched patterns on secondary markets like Replacements, Ltd.