British Sterling Silver Flatware Handle or Spoon
Flatware · Unknown British Silversmith
Pattern: Plain Fiddle or Standard Utility Pattern
Type
Flatware
Maker
Unknown British Silversmith
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity)
Dimensions
Standard small flatware piece dimensions, likely weighing between 20 to 50 grams
Description
A well-preserved piece of British sterling silver flatware showcasing a classic, unadorned terminal end. The reverse displays a crisp and legible set of traditional British hallmarks stamped directly into the silver, verifying its sterling purity and London assay origin.
Key Features
Complete and clear set of standard British hallmarks including the lion passant and duty mark
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity)
Finish & Decoration
Polished smooth finish with no engraving, reflecting a classic utilitarian aesthetic
Hallmarks & Stamps
British hallmarks visible including a lion passant for sterling silver, a leopard's head assay mark for London, a date letter E, a sovereign's head duty mark, and a maker's mark containing initials
Construction Details
Die-struck or forged sterling silver construction with solid handle shape typical of 19th-century British flatware manufacturing
Functional Features
Ergonomic flatware handle designed for comfortable grip and utility use
Handle & Grip Details
Solid silver handle, integral to the piece with a smooth, rounded terminal end
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality traditional British manufacturing with deeply struck hallmarks and clean metal finishing
Authentication Indicators
Clear, deep-punched punch marks corresponding to authentic British assay practices of the period, including the correct shape of punch shields
Origin & Manufacturing
London, England, manufactured following traditional British assay office standards and regulations
Era & Period
Victorian Era (1837-1901), indicated by the style of hallmarks and duty mark usage
Age Estimate
Circa mid-to-late 19th century, consistent with the date letter style and duty mark sequence
Cultural Significance
Represents the height of British silversmithing regulation and the widespread domestic use of sterling silver tableware during the Victorian period
Condition Notes
Very good antique condition with light surface micro-scratches from gentle use and cleaning, well-defined hallmarks with crisp strikes
Value Estimate
Moderate antique market value, largely dependent on total weight, exact maker, and completeness of set
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a soft microfiber cloth and specialized silver polish such as Wright's Silver Cream; store in an anti-tarnish cloth or bag
Similar Pieces
Standard Victorian sterling silver teaspoons, dessert spoons, and forks by various London makers
Interesting Facts
The inclusion of the monarch's head duty mark helps pinpoint the period when a tax was levied on silver manufactured in Great Britain