Libra Zodiac Souvenir Spoon in Silver Plate
Flatware (Teaspoon / Souvenir Spoon) · Unknown manufacturer, likely mass-produced souvenir spoon manufacturer from the mid-to-late 20th century.
Pattern: Zodiac Astrology Series, widely produced across various novelty and souvenir flatware lines.
Type
Flatware (Teaspoon / Souvenir Spoon)
Maker
Unknown manufacturer, likely mass-produced souvenir spoon manufacturer from the mid-to-late 20th century.
Material
Silver-plated base metal (typically nickel silver or white metal alloy underneath), featuring an enamel insert on the terminal.
Dimensions
Standard teaspoon length, approximately 11 to 15 cm (4.5 to 6 inches), weighing approximately 15 to 25 grams.
Description
This charming novelty souvenir spoon is dedicated to the Libra astrological sign. The handle features an elaborate embossed scroll and bead design culminating in a shield-shaped terminal with a black and gold enameled inlay displaying the word "LIBRA" above the scales symbol and the date parameters. Adding a unique touch, the bowl of the spoon is stamped with a distinct outline of the scales. While primarily created as a collectible novelty item rather than fine silver tableware, it represents a fun and nostalgic era of souvenir spoon collecting.
Key Features
Enameled Libra shield terminal, beaded edge handle, bowl stamped with the Libra scale motif.
Material & Composition
Silver-plated base metal (typically nickel silver or white metal alloy underneath), featuring an enamel insert on the terminal.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish on the bowl, beaded handle edges, embossed scrollwork on the terminal, and an applied enameled shield featuring the Libra zodiac symbol (scales), the text "LIBRA", and date range "SEPT 23 - OCT 22". An outline of the scales is also stamped or engraved directly into the spoon bowl.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in the provided image, but typical pieces of this type feature generic maker marks or "EPNS" (Electroplated Nickel Silver) or "A1" stamps on the reverse of the stem.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured, die-struck handle and bowl, with applied enameled shield emblem on the terminal.
Functional Features
Standard teaspoon designed primarily for novelty, collection, and display purposes rather than heavy daily dining use.
Handle & Grip Details
Ornate handle featuring beaded borders, scrollwork, and a decorative enameled terminal shaped like a shield.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial manufacturing quality with clean die-struck details and secure enamel application, typical of mid-century novelty items.
Authentication Indicators
Modern mass-production die-stamping techniques, enameled insert, and lack of traditional precious metal hallmarks indicate a novelty or souvenir piece rather than antique sterling silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in the United States, United Kingdom, or Japan, which were prolific producers of novelty and souvenir flatware during the mid-20th century.
Era & Period
Mid-to-Late 20th Century (circa 1950s-1980s), reflecting the mid-century popularity of collectible souvenir and zodiac novelty spoons.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1980, based on the style of enamelwork and mass-production characteristics.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the mid-20th-century cultural fascination with astrology and personalized novelty items, as well as the tradition of collecting souvenir spoons.
Condition Notes
Good overall condition with a bright mirror polish on the bowl and intact enamel on the terminal. Minor surface scuffs typical of age and handling.
Value Estimate
Low market value, typically ranging from $5 to $15 depending on collector demand for zodiac-specific items.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid harsh silver dips as they can damage the enameled insert or strip the thin silver plating. Store in a dry place.
Similar Pieces
Other zodiac-themed souvenir spoons from various novelty flatware series, birthstone spoons, and state or city souvenir spoons.
Interesting Facts
Souvenir and zodiac spoon collecting reached massive heights of popularity in the mid-20th century, leading to extensive series dedicated to astrology, months, states, and tourist destinations.