Antique Old Spoon Identification: Material, Hallmarks, Maker, Pattern, Wear and Repairs

Start with material and marks

Look for sterling, coin silver, silver plate, EPNS, maker marks, assay marks, country marks, patent dates, and pattern names. Marks should be photographed sharply before any cleaning.

• Use closeups of the back of the handle, bowl, heel, and any monogram.
• Do not polish aggressively; marks and surface wear are evidence.
• Weigh sterling candidates separately from plated examples.

Pattern, form, and use

Spoons can be teaspoons, tablespoons, serving spoons, souvenir spoons, berry spoons, salt spoons, medicine spoons, or specialty forms. Pattern and use affect the market.

• Monograms can reduce or add interest depending on provenance and design.
• Bowl shape, handle terminal, engraving, and wear help identify age and function.

Condition issues

Check bowl wear, dents, splits, solder repairs, bent handles, worn plating, thinning, and over-polishing. Plated spoons with base metal showing usually have lower value.

For sets, count every piece and note mismatched patterns or replacement pieces.

Before appraisal

Send group photos plus individual mark closeups and a total count. Include weight only if you can separate sterling from plated pieces accurately.