WWI Commemorative British Military Leaders Silver-Plated Teaspoon Set
Flatware - Souvenir/Commemorative Teaspoons · Unknown mass-market manufacturer, likely Sheffield-based such as Barker Brothers or Elkington, produced for the souvenir trade during the Great War.
Pattern: Great War Commanders / Allied Leaders Series, introduced circa 1914-1915.
Type
Flatware - Souvenir/Commemorative Teaspoons
Maker
Unknown mass-market manufacturer, likely Sheffield-based such as Barker Brothers or Elkington, produced for the souvenir trade during the Great War.
Material
EPNS (Electroplated Nickel Silver). The base is a copper-nickel-zinc alloy with a thin electrolytically deposited layer of silver. Not solid sterling.
Dimensions
Standard teaspoon length approximately 11.5cm - 12.5cm (4.5 to 5 inches); weight approximately 15-20 grams per spoon.
Description
A charming and historically significant set of five commemorative teaspoons featuring prominent British military and royal figures of World War I. The spoons depict King George V in his coronation crown and Allied commanders in full military regalia. These sets were popular patriotic souvenirs sold to families on the home front or soldiers on leave, capturing the nationalistic fervor of the early 20th century.
Key Features
Identification relies on the high-relief portraits including 'FRENCH' and 'KITCHENER' text along the stems, and the heraldic crown terminals.
Material & Composition
EPNS (Electroplated Nickel Silver). The base is a copper-nickel-zinc alloy with a thin electrolytically deposited layer of silver. Not solid sterling.
Finish & Decoration
Die-struck relief decoration with a polished bowl and matte oxidized handle recesses to highlight the profiles. Features portraits of King George V, Lord Kitchener, Sir John French, and Admiral Jellicoe.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually marked 'EPNS' on the reverse of the stem or 'MADE IN ENGLAND'. Lacks the Lion Passant hallmark required for solid sterling silver.
Construction Details
Machine die-struck from sheet metal. The handles are stamped with heavy steel dies to create the deep relief portraits, then silver-plated after assembly.
Functional Features
Standard oval bowl for tea service; primarily intended for display or as patriotic keepsakes rather than heavy daily dining use.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid metal handles formed as part of the body, featuring figural terminal ends with heraldic shields, crowns, and laurel wreaths symbolizing victory.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality stamping. The detail in the facial features is relatively high for mass-produced plated ware, showcasing the quality of British steel die-cutting of the era.
Authentication Indicators
The lack of official assay office hallmarks confirms these are plated; the crispness of the die-stamping is consistent with early 20th-century industrial production.
Origin & Manufacturing
United Kingdom, likely Sheffield or Birmingham workshops specializing in stamped flatware souvenirs.
Era & Period
The Great War / WWI Era (1914-1918), characterized by a surge in patriotic propaganda and commemorative merchandise.
Age Estimate
Circa 1914-1919, specifically during the highest period of British wartime mobilization before the 1920s shift to Art Deco.
Cultural Significance
These items reflect the democratization of silver-like goods for the middle class and served as domestic reminders of the effort and leadership during global conflict.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Visible 'bleeding' of the base metal (yellowish tint) where silver plating has worn thin on the high points of the faces. Light surface scratches in the bowls from storage.
Value Estimate
$15 - $25 per spoon; $75 - $125 for a complete original cased set. Value is driven by historical interest rather than metal content.
Care & Maintenance
Clean only with mild soapy water or a very soft silver cloth. Avoid aggressive liquid dips which can strip the thin silver plating and expose the dull base metal.
Similar Pieces
Sterling silver versions by silversmiths like Levi & Salaman exist but are much rarer and will carry full legal hallmarks.
Interesting Facts
Lord Kitchener's image on these spoons is based on the famous 'Your Country Needs You' recruitment poster. Sets often included figures like Nurse Edith Cavell or King Albert of Belgium.