British Sterling Silver Teaspoon with Traditional Hallmarks
Flatware - Spoon (Teaspoon) · Unknown British Silversmith (Maker's mark visible as partial initials such as PB or similar in assay duty punch)
Pattern: Plain Old English or Fiddle standard utility pattern
Type
Flatware - Spoon (Teaspoon)
Maker
Unknown British Silversmith (Maker's mark visible as partial initials such as PB or similar in assay duty punch)
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 fineness standard)
Dimensions
Standard teaspoon length approximately 13-15 cm (5-6 inches), estimated weight around 15-25 grams
Description
A classic British sterling silver teaspoon featuring a traditional handle profile and a clear set of stamped hallmarks on the reverse, demonstrating the stringent legal assay requirements of the British silver trade.
Key Features
Legible struck British hallmarks, solid silver composition, classic utilitarian form
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 fineness standard)
Finish & Decoration
Plain mirror or polished surface finish with simple handle terminal shape typical of utilitarian flatware
Hallmarks & Stamps
British sterling silver hallmark grouping containing a maker's mark, standard purity mark (such as lion passant for sterling), and a duty mark or assay office punch
Construction Details
Die-struck and cold-worked traditional British flatware manufacturing
Functional Features
Standard utility spoon bowl designed for stirring tea or consuming desserts
Handle & Grip Details
Solid silver tapering handle with rounded terminal end, providing ergonomic grip
Craftsmanship Details
Traditional hand-finished flatware blank with clean stamp impressions and smooth edges
Authentication Indicators
Authentic stamped hallmarks showing traditional duty and standard punches, appropriate depth and irregular striking typical of genuine period pieces
Origin & Manufacturing
United Kingdom (Assayed in London, Birmingham, or Sheffield depending on uncaptured town mark)
Era & Period
Victorian or Edwardian Era, based on hallmark punch styles and typography
Age Estimate
Circa 1850-1910 based on hallmark strike characteristics
Cultural Significance
Reflects the Victorian and Edwardian obsession with formalized dining and afternoon tea customs
Condition Notes
Moderate surface tarnish, minor scratches consistent with age and gentle use, structural integrity remains very good
Value Estimate
25 to 50 USD depending on exact weight, maker rarity, and current precious metals spot price
Care & Maintenance
Wash gently in warm soapy water, dry thoroughly with a soft cloth, and polish periodically with a reputable silver cream
Similar Pieces
Standard Victorian and Georgian British silver teaspoons by various regional makers
Interesting Facts
British hallmarking is one of the oldest forms of consumer protection in the world, dating back to the 14th century