Collecting silver spoons is a fascinating and elegant hobby that blends art, history, and precious metal craftsmanship. Silver spoons can range from 17th-century flatware made for aristocrats to charming souvenir pieces from the 20th century. Some are functional, others symbolic—but all have stories to tell.
Why Collect Silver Spoons?
- Historical significance: Many are tied to specific time periods, monarchs, or regions.
- Craftsmanship: Hallmarked silver often features detailed hand engraving, repoussé work, or crest motifs.
- Precious metal value: Solid silver spoons (especially sterling) retain intrinsic value.
- Collectible categories: Souvenir, ecclesiastical, baby spoons, seal-top, Apostle spoons, etc.
- Investment potential: Rare or antique spoons can appreciate significantly over time.
Best Types of Silver Spoons to Collect
1. Apostle Spoons (16th–17th century)
- Feature a small figure of one of the apostles at the handle tip.
- Highly prized in English and European silver collections.
- Value: $500–$5,000+ each depending on date and condition.
2. Seal-Top Spoons (1500s–1600s)
- Flat bowl, with a flat seal-shaped end on the handle.
- Early English pieces are rare and museum-worthy.
- Value: $1,000–$10,000+ for authentic Tudor/Stuart-era examples.
3. Georgian & Regency Sterling Spoons (1714–1830)
- Fiddle, Old English, and Feather Edge patterns dominate.
- Look for London or Edinburgh hallmarks.
- Value: $50–$300+ per spoon; full sets can be $1,000–$5,000+.
4. Victorian & Edwardian Silver Spoons (1837–1910)
- Often engraved or monogrammed; decorative patterns popular.
- Aesthetic Movement and Art Nouveau designs highly collectible.
- Value: $20–$150 per spoon, more for rare designs or makers.
5. Souvenir Spoons (late 19th–early 20th c.)
- Made to commemorate places, events, or figures.
- Often sterling, with enameled handles or engraved scenes.
- U.S., Canadian, and European souvenir spoons are very collectible.
- Value: $15–$300+, depending on rarity, material, and theme.
6. American Colonial & Coin Silver Spoons (pre-1860)
- Not sterling (92.5%) but closer to 90% silver content.
- Often hand-forged and marked by early American silversmiths.
- Value: $100–$1,000+, especially for rare regional silversmiths.
What to Look for When Collecting
1. Hallmarks
- British silver is the most thoroughly hallmarked:
- Lion Passant = sterling silver
- Date letter = production year
- City mark = where it was made
- Maker’s mark = silversmith’s initials
- U.S. coin silver may have only maker’s marks or retailer stamps.
2. Material
- Sterling silver (92.5% silver) is most valuable.
- Avoid silverplate unless it’s rare or artistically significant.
- Test if unsure: real silver is non-magnetic and tarnishes over time.
3. Maker
- Renowned silversmiths increase value.
- British: Paul Storr, Hester Bateman
- U.S.: John McMullin, Robert Cruickshank
- Look for matching sets or spoons with known provenance.
4. Pattern
- Some patterns (e.g., Kings Pattern, Chantilly, Repoussé) are more collectible.
- Matching sets or unusual bowl shapes (e.g., egg spoons, sugar sifters) add interest.
5. Condition
- Avoid spoons with wear on hallmarks, pitted bowls, or heavy repairs.
- Minor tarnish is okay and can be polished.
How Much Are Silver Spoons Worth?
| Spoon Type | Approx. Value (USD) |
|---|---|
| Early Apostle Spoon | $1,000–$5,000+ |
| Georgian Sterling Spoon | $50–$300+ |
| Victorian Sterling Spoon | $20–$150+ |
| Souvenir Spoon (Sterling) | $15–$300+ |
| Colonial Coin Silver | $100–$1,000+ |
| Full Sterling Sets | $1,000–$10,000+ |