International Silver Co. Daffodil Pattern Silverplate Teaspoon
Flatware (Teaspoon) · International Silver Co., specifically under the 1847 Rogers Bros. brand line. International Silver was formed in Meriden, CT in 1898 as a conglomerate of major American silversmiths, including the legendary Rogers family brothers.
Pattern: Daffodil pattern, introduced in 1950. It was one of the most successful mid-century floral patterns produced by 1847 Rogers Bros. and remained popular through the 1960s.
Type
Flatware (Teaspoon)
Maker
International Silver Co., specifically under the 1847 Rogers Bros. brand line. International Silver was formed in Meriden, CT in 1898 as a conglomerate of major American silversmiths, including the legendary Rogers family brothers.
Material
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS). This is high-quality silverplate consisting of a base metal alloy of copper, nickel, and zinc (nickel silver) which is then electrochemically coated in a layer of fine silver.
Dimensions
Standard teaspoon length, approximately 6 to 6.25 inches (15.2 to 15.9 cm). Estimated weight is approximately 30-35 grams. Silverplate is generally heavier than thin sterling but lighter than weighted hollowware.
Description
A charming example of post-war American dining culture, the Daffodil pattern spoon captures the optimism of the 1950s. Its design features a meticulously rendered daffodil flower that seems to grow upwards from the bowl. The slender, tapered handle gives it a sense of height and elegance, making it a favorite for 'Sunday Best' table settings during its era.
Key Features
The central identifier is the raised daffodil flower at the widest part of the handle and the unique 'lance-like' pointed tip of the handle, which distinguishes it from other similar floral patterns like 'Adoration' or 'Springtime'.
Material & Composition
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS). This is high-quality silverplate consisting of a base metal alloy of copper, nickel, and zinc (nickel silver) which is then electrochemically coated in a layer of fine silver.
Finish & Decoration
The item features a bright-polished finish with a relief-carved floral motif of a daffodil with flowing, curvilinear stems that extend down the handle in a late Art Nouveau/Mid-Century Modern hybrid style. The handle is an elongated, gracefully tapered shape ending in a pointed tip.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The reverse of the handle likely bears the stamp '1847 Rogers Bros. IS Daffodil'. The 'IS' stands for International Silver. It will not have a 'Sterling' or '925' mark because it is a plated piece.
Construction Details
Precision die-struck manufacturing. The pattern was pressed into the metal using heavy machinery and high-pressure dies to ensure consistency. It is a single solid piece of metal (monobloc construction) excluding the electroplated layer.
Functional Features
Standard oval bowl for stirring or eating soft foods. The handle is specifically designed with a wider mid-section for ergonomic balance while maintaining a slender, delicate aesthetic.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid metal handle integrated into the bowl. The surface is smooth with the exception of the raised floral detail. The tip of the handle is distinctively pointed, which is a signature of this specific pattern's profile.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial craftsmanship. The detail in the daffodil petals shows the excellence of American die-cutting in the 1950s. The edges are smooth and well-finished, characteristic of the 'IS' quality control standards.
Authentication Indicators
The pattern is a documented '1847 Rogers Bros.' design. The crispness of the floral strike and the specific profile of the handle are consistent with factory production. Lack of 'Sterling' mark confirms it is the silverplate version.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America, likely manufactured in Meriden or Wallingford, Connecticut, which was the 'Silver Capital of the World' during the mid-20th century.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1950s). While the 1950s was known for 'Atomic' design, there was a parallel 'Romantic' movement that favored traditional floral themes updated with sleek, streamlined silhouettes.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1965. Based on the pattern launch date and the common production lifecycle of the 1847 Rogers Bros. floral series.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury in middle-class American homes. High-quality silverplate allowed families to own 'fine' silverware that mimicked the look of solid sterling at a fraction of the price during the baby boom years.
Condition Notes
The item shows moderate surface wear and scratching (use marks) in the bowl and on the handle. There appears to be some 'plate loss' or heavy tarnish/residue inside the bowl which may indicate the base metal is beginning to show through (bleeding). Overall condition is 'Good'.
Value Estimate
$3.00 - $8.00 USD per individual teaspoon. Silverplate has low scrap value and is primarily valued for its utility or to complete existing family sets.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream such as Wright’s. Avoid 'silver dips' which can strip the thin plating. Store in a tarnish-resistant chest or flannel roll. Because it is plated, avoid over-polishing which can wear away the silver layer to reveal the yellowish nickel-silver base.
Similar Pieces
Oneida 'Damask Rose' (Sterling), Gorham 'Buttercup' (Sterling), and 1847 Rogers Bros. 'Adoration' (Plate). Daffodil is distinct due to its pointed tip whereas many competitors used rounded or scalloped tips.
Interesting Facts
The '1847 Rogers Bros.' brand name was so valuable that International Silver kept the date 1847 in the logo for over a century, even though the company itself wasn't formed until 1898. The Daffodil pattern was heavily marketed to brides in the 1950s via magazines like 'Good Housekeeping'.