Daniel & Arter 'Nevada Silver' Fiddle Pattern Spoon
Flatware (Spoon) · Daniel & Arter (Thomas Henry Daniel and Richard Arter). Founded in Birmingham, England (Globe Works). Known for being a prolific manufacturer of high-quality silver plate and nickel silver alloys.
Pattern: Fiddle Pattern. Introduced in the early 19th century; this specific example likely late 19th to early 20th century. High production volume.
Type
Flatware (Spoon)
Maker
Daniel & Arter (Thomas Henry Daniel and Richard Arter). Founded in Birmingham, England (Globe Works). Known for being a prolific manufacturer of high-quality silver plate and nickel silver alloys.
Material
Nevada Silver (Nickel Silver). This is a base metal alloy typically composed of copper, nickel, and zinc. Despite the name, it contains no actual silver unless it was originally electroplated (which has worn away here).
Dimensions
Estimated length 18cm (7 inches); estimated weight 45-55 grams. Standard luncheon or dessert spoon size.
Description
A sturdy example of British industrial flatware, this spoon is made of 'Nevada Silver,' a proprietary nickel alloy developed by Daniel & Arter to mimic the appearance of sterling silver. It features the classic Fiddle pattern, a staple of 19th-century dining, known for its clean lines and flared handle.
Key Features
The 'NEVADA SILVER' stamp is the primary identifier. The pseudo-hallmarks (specifically the globe mark) are diagnostic for Daniel & Arter's non-precious lines.
Material & Composition
Nevada Silver (Nickel Silver). This is a base metal alloy typically composed of copper, nickel, and zinc. Despite the name, it contains no actual silver unless it was originally electroplated (which has worn away here).
Finish & Decoration
Satin finish with heavy surface oxidation and scratches. The design is simple Fiddle Pattern with a characteristic 'shoulder' on the stem and a wide, flat handle terminal. No engraving or repoussé.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'NEVADA SILVER D&A' on the stem. The handle reverse features pseudo-hallmarks: 'D & A' in cartouches, a circular globe mark, and a stylized gothic shield. These are not official assay marks but proprietary manufacturer stamps.
Construction Details
Die-struck from a flat sheet of nickel silver alloy. Machine-manufactured with factory-finished edges. Not hand-forged.
Functional Features
Tapered stem for grip; deep bowl (implied) for liquid consumption. The 'Nevada Silver' alloy was marketed for its durability and resistance to corrosion compared to cheaper brass bases.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid nickel silver handle, integral to the piece. Fiddle-shaped terminal designed for a comfortable thumb rest. Shows significant surface scuffing.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced industrial quality. The stamping is clear and deep, suggesting well-maintained steel dies. Typical of the reliable, utilitarian output of Birmingham’s Globe Works.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of 'D&A' alongside the 'Nevada Silver' name confirms its origin. The lack of a Lion Passant (British Sterling) or a Crown (Sheffield) confirms it is not silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Birmingham, England. Produced at the Globe Works, Highgate Street. Birmingham was the world center for 'Brummagem' toys and silver alloys during this era.
Era & Period
Late Victorian to Edwardian (c. 1880-1915). Part of the industrial boom in Birmingham where 'luxury-style' items were mass-produced for the middle class using non-precious metals.
Age Estimate
Circa 1890-1910 based on the 'Nevada Silver' trademark usage and the style of the Daniel & Arter maker's mark.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury during the Industrial Revolution, allowing households that couldn't afford sterling silver to own 'silver-looking' tableware that was durable enough for daily use.
Condition Notes
Good average condition. Significant surface wear, micro-scratching, and 'pitting' common to nickel alloys. No structural bends, but the original luster has been lost to oxidation.
Value Estimate
$5.00 - $15.00 USD. Value is functional/decorative rather than intrinsic, as there is no scrap silver value. Commonly found in 'bargain bins' at antique fairs.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Do not use heavy silver dips as there is no silver to polish; general metal polish like Brasso can restore some shine to the nickel, but will not make it look like sterling.
Similar Pieces
EPNS (Electroplated Nickel Silver) spoons look identical but have a thin layer of real silver. 'Potosi Silver' is another competing alloy used by different Birmingham makers.
Interesting Facts
Makers often used names like 'Nevada Silver,' 'German Silver,' or 'EPNS' to sound exotic or prestigious, despite the items containing no silver content. Daniel & Arter was so successful that they employed over 300 people by the 1890s.