Oneida Stainless Steel Teaspoon in 'Profile' Pattern
Flatware - Teaspoon · Oneida Limited, an American manufacturer founded in 1880 in Oneida, New York, known for transitioning from utopian community roots to a dominant global producer of stainless and silver-plated flatware.
Pattern: Profile pattern, introduced in 1953 as part of the Oneidacraft Deluxe Stainless line. It is a retired mid-century modern design.
Type
Flatware - Teaspoon
Maker
Oneida Limited, an American manufacturer founded in 1880 in Oneida, New York, known for transitioning from utopian community roots to a dominant global producer of stainless and silver-plated flatware.
Material
Stainless Steel. This item contains 0% silver and is composed of a steel alloy designed for corrosion resistance and durability.
Dimensions
Standard teaspoon size, approximately 6 inches (15.2 cm) in length. Weight is approximately 35-40 grams, consistent with durable everyday dining grade steel.
Description
This is a quintessential example of mid-20th-century American utilitarian design. The Oneidacraft Deluxe Stainless series was marketed as a high-quality alternative to silver plate, requiring no polishing. The 'Profile' pattern is characterized by its clean lines and lack of ornate floral or scrollwork, fitting the Atomic Age aesthetic of the 1950s.
Key Features
The 'Profile' ridge line on the handle, the specific 'Oneidacraft' backstamp, and the distinct absence of silver hallmarks.
Material & Composition
Stainless Steel. This item contains 0% silver and is composed of a steel alloy designed for corrosion resistance and durability.
Finish & Decoration
Satin-to-mirror finish on bowl and handle with a simple, 'Mid-Century Modern' aesthetic. It features a single raised ridge line following the contour of the handle (thread motif) ending in a rounded tip.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'ONEIDACRAFT DELUXE STAINLESS' on the back of the neck. It does not carry silver purity hallmarks like 'Sterling' or the 'Lion Passant' because it is not silver.
Construction Details
Mass-produced via die-striking and machine-stamping from sheet stainless steel. The bowl is cold-formed and the handle pattern is struck under high pressure.
Functional Features
Standard oval bowl for eating and stirring; integrated single-piece construction for maximum hygiene and strength.
Handle & Grip Details
Flat, ergonomic handle with a slightly widened rounded tip. Integrated construction (no separate handle components).
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial manufacturing. The stamping is deep and crisp, and the edges are rounded and smoothed (tumbled) to prevent sharpness, indicative of Oneida's 'Deluxe' tier.
Authentication Indicators
The 'STAINLESS' stamp is the primary indicator that this is not silver. The lack of tarnish (patina) also differentiates it from silver or silver-plated items.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States (likely Oneida, NY or Sherrill, NY factory), produced by Oneida Ltd.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1950s); the design reflects the post-WWII shift toward minimalist, easy-to-care-for household goods.
Age Estimate
Circa 1953–1965 based on the pattern introduction date and the specific style of the Oneidacraft Deluxe branding.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Modern Maid' era where households moved away from labor-intensive silver polishing toward dishwasher-safe stainless steel materials.
Condition Notes
Good condition with visible surface scratches ('use marks') and light pitting typical of stainless steel that has been machine washed over decades. No bending or deep gouges.
Value Estimate
$2.00 - $5.00 USD. Value is based on replacement needs for people completing existing sets rather than bullion or antique value.
Care & Maintenance
Dishwasher safe. Can be cleaned with standard dish soap. If surface rust appears from contact with carbon steel, a non-abrasive stainless steel cleaner like Bar Keepers Friend can be used.
Similar Pieces
Oneida 'Accent' or 'Vista' patterns; International Silver 'Lyon' patterns. This piece is frequently mistaken for silver plate by novice collectors because of the reputable brand name.
Interesting Facts
Oneida Ltd. grew out of the Oneida Community, a religious perfectionist communal society. By the 1950s, they had moved almost entirely into mass-market industrial production.