British Sterling Silver Fiddle Thread Pattern Spoon
Flatware, Spoon (likely Teaspoon or Dessert Spoon) · British Silversmith (Maker's mark partially obscured/rubbed in punch series)
Pattern: Fiddle Thread Pattern (Classic 19th Century British Traditional Pattern)
Type
Flatware, Spoon (likely Teaspoon or Dessert Spoon)
Maker
British Silversmith (Maker's mark partially obscured/rubbed in punch series)
Material
Sterling Silver (925/1000 purity)
Dimensions
Estimated length 14-18 cm (5.5-7 inches); estimated weight 25-45 grams depending on precise form
Description
An authentic 19th-century British sterling silver spoon crafted in the timeless Fiddle Thread pattern. Featuring classic squared shoulders near the drop and a molded, parallel raised border following the contours of the handle terminal, this piece represents traditional English silver flatware design renowned for balance, durability, and restrained elegance.
Key Features
Distinctive Fiddle stem shape with pronounced shoulders, double raised threaded line border, clear four-part British hallmark sequence punched on the back stem
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (925/1000 purity)
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver finish with raised, double-threaded border molding typical of the Fiddle & Thread style
Hallmarks & Stamps
Four distinct punched hallmarks on the stem reverse: Maker's mark punch, Lion Passant (indicating sterling silver purity), Assay Office mark (city mark), and Date Letter code
Construction Details
Hand-forged or die-struck solid sterling silver, drop-forged stem with integral bowl formation
Functional Features
Tapered handle with flared terminal providing balanced weight and leverage for dining
Handle & Grip Details
Flat profile Fiddle shape with distinct shoulders near the bowl transition and a raised molded threaded border around the edges
Craftsmanship Details
High quality die-struck construction with hand-finishing, showing crisp border relief and deep hallmark strikes.
Authentication Indicators
Deeply struck authentic British hallmarks showing standard layout (Maker, Purity, Assay, Date), correct weight and density for solid sterling silver, authentic operational wear patterns
Origin & Manufacturing
United Kingdom (Assay Office likely London, Birmingham, or Sheffield)
Era & Period
Victorian Era or late Georgian Period (19th Century)
Age Estimate
Circa 1830–1890 based on hallmark format, pattern popularity, and construction style
Cultural Significance
Reflects 19th-century British dining etiquette and the expansion of middle-class and gentry household silver collections during the Industrial Era.
Condition Notes
Good antique condition showing light surface scratches, slight tarnishing, and natural age-related patina around the stamped hallmarks. Edges remain crisp.
Value Estimate
$30.00 - $75.00 USD (depending on exact maker, date confirmation, and total silver weight)
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soap and warm water. Use a non-abrasive silver cream (e.g., Wright's Silver Cream) with a soft cotton cloth to remove tarnish without wearing down the high points of the threaded border. Store in an anti-tarnish cloth roll.
Similar Pieces
Fiddle Pattern flatware, Fiddle Shell Pattern flatware, Kings Pattern, Old English Pattern
Interesting Facts
The Fiddle pattern originated in France during the mid-18th century and became the dominant flatware pattern in 19th-century Britain, with variations like Fiddle & Thread or Fiddle & Shell catering to wealthier households.