1847 Rogers Bros. 'Adoration' Pattern Silver Plated Teaspoon
Flatware (Teaspoon) · 1847 Rogers Bros., a brand of International Silver Company. They are the most famous American silver plate brand, known for popularizing high-quality electroplating in the mid-19th century.
Pattern: Adoration pattern, introduced in 1939. This was a highly popular Art Deco/Art Moderne influenced floral pattern produced for several decades.
Type
Flatware (Teaspoon)
Maker
1847 Rogers Bros., a brand of International Silver Company. They are the most famous American silver plate brand, known for popularizing high-quality electroplating in the mid-19th century.
Material
Silver plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver or EPNS). The base metal is a non-precious copper-nickel-zinc alloy with a thin surface layer of pure silver.
Dimensions
Standard teaspoon length, approximately 6 inches (15.2 cm). Estimated weight is 30-35 grams. It follows the light-to-medium weight industrial standards of the mid-20th century.
Description
An iconic example of American mid-century domesticity, this Adoration teaspoon features a romantic floral design with crisp, clean lines typical of the Pre-War era. While silver plated rather than solid silver, the 1847 Rogers Bros. line was marketed as 'heritage' quality for the aspiring middle-class household.
Key Features
The 'IS' mark for International Silver, the specific Adoration floral cluster at the handle tip, and the beaded transition line above the flower.
Material & Composition
Silver plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver or EPNS). The base metal is a non-precious copper-nickel-zinc alloy with a thin surface layer of pure silver.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized/Antiqued finish within the recessed details of the pattern. Features a prominent stylized flower with radiating wheat-like sprays and beaded borders characteristic of late Art Deco motifs.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped '1847 ROGERS BROSIS' (the 'IS' stands for International Silver) on the back of the handle. Note the absence of the word 'Sterling', confirming it is silver plate.
Construction Details
Machine-made and die-struck. The pattern and form were stamped under high pressure from a sheet of base metal, then electroplated in a silver bath.
Functional Features
Tapered handle for grip, deep oval bowl intended for stirring tea/coffee or consuming desserts. Non-removable, solid one-piece construction.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid metal handle integrated into the bowl, featuring a flared spatulate end with a central floral motif. The handle is narrow at the neck for balance.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality production. The die-striking is deep and clear, showing good maintainability of the steel molds used by International Silver during the mid-20th century.
Authentication Indicators
The authentic '1847 Rogers Bros' stamp is correctly formatted for the period. The wear pattern is consistent with silver-plated base metals where dark oxidation occurs in the recesses.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America, likely manufactured in Meriden, Connecticut, at the International Silver Company factories.
Era & Period
Late Art Deco to WWII era (1939-1945). The design reflects the transition from geometric Deco to the more 'feminine' floral styles of the 1940s.
Age Estimate
Circa 1939-1950. The backstamp style and the specific pattern launch date (1939) suggest mid-century production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of 'expensive-looking' tableware in American homes during the Great Depression and WWII era, allowing families to own high-style silver at a lower price point.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible heavy tarnish (sulfide deposits) on the bowl and handle. Significant surface scratches. Some 'heel wear' likely on the back where the bowl rests. No structural cracks or bends.
Value Estimate
$1.00 - $5.00 USD. While historically interesting, silver-plated flatware in used condition has very low market value and is primarily valued for replacements in existing sets.
Care & Maintenance
Polish with a mild silver cream (e.g., Wright's) using a soft cloth. Do not use abrasive 'silver dips' as they can strip the thin plating. Store in a tarnish-resistant chest or cloth roll.
Similar Pieces
Oneida Community 'Milady' pattern or Gorham 'Chantilly' (though Chantilly is usually Sterling). Other Rogers patterns like 'First Love' are similar in weight and style.
Interesting Facts
The '1847' in the brand name does not mean the spoon was made in 1847; it refers to the year the three Rogers brothers perfected their plating process. The Adoration pattern was one of their most successful wedding registry choices.