When you think of prized antiques, spoons may not be the first items that come to mind. But believe it or not, antique spoons are highly sought after by collectors around the world—with some rare examples fetching tens of thousands of dollars at auction.
These aren‘t the cheap utensils gathering dust in your kitchen drawer. The most valuable antique spoons are exquisite works of art, crafted by master silversmiths using precious metals and gemstones. Many also have fascinating histories attached to them.
As an antique expert, I‘m excited to take you on a journey into the wonderful world of collectible spoons. In this article, you‘ll learn:
- How spoons evolved from primitive tools to luxury goods
- What to look for when identifying and valuing an antique spoon
- The stories behind some of the most expensive spoons ever sold
- How to care for and preserve your antique spoon collection
- Answers to common questions about the antique spoon trade
Whether you‘re a seasoned collector or simply appreciate the artistry and legacy of antiques, I think you‘ll enjoy learning about these marvelous objects. Let‘s dig in, shall we?
A Brief History of the Spoon
Humans have been using spoon-like utensils since prehistoric times. Archaeologists have unearthed shells and hollowed out pieces of wood that were likely used to scoop up liquid or soft foods in ancient cultures all over the world.
But it wasn‘t until around 1000 BC that spoons started being made from metal. We know this thanks to ornate specimens crafted from bronze, silver, and gold found in Egyptian burial sites.
These ancient Egyptian spoons featured intricately carved handles depicting animals, gods, and royalty. They were used for religious ceremonies and to signify the wealth and power of the ruling class.
In Medieval Europe, spoons continued to be status symbols owned mainly by the nobility and clergy. It was common for affluent people to carry their own personal spoon with them when traveling or dining out.
Starting in the late Middle Ages, specialist guilds of silversmiths and goldsmiths began popping up in European cities to craft high-end cutlery and serving ware for the upper classes. Elaborate, bejeweled spoons made popular wedding and baptism gifts among the elite.
In Colonial America, silversmiths like Paul Revere created elegant yet functional spoons that are now extremely collectible. As you‘ll learn later, Revere‘s spoons are some of the most valuable in existence today.
By the 19th century, the Industrial Revolution allowed for mass production of spoons and they became a common household item accessible to all social classes. Victorians in England kicked off the trend of souvenir spoon collecting that remains popular today.
As you can see, the spoon has made quite a journey from its humble beginnings. Today, antique specimens are treasured for their beauty, craftsmanship, and the fascinating stories they tell about the people who once used them. Speaking of which…
What Makes an Antique Spoon Valuable?
So what separates a priceless antique from a worthless trinket? As with any collectible, rarity is a key factor in an antique spoon‘s value. But unless you‘re an expert, it can be tricky to know just how rare a particular spoon is.
Here are some important things to consider when evaluating an antique spoon:
Age: In general, the older a spoon is, the more valuable it will be to collectors. But age alone doesn‘t determine a utensil‘s worth. Condition and craftsmanship also play major roles.
Maker and Origin: Spoons crafted by prominent silversmiths or from renowned workshops will fetch higher prices than those of unknown origin. Pieces marked with a maker‘s hallmark are more valuable.
Composition: What a spoon is made of matters a lot in terms of value. Sterling silver is the most prized material, but you‘ll also find collectible spoons in gold, porcelain, bone, and ivory. The purer the precious metal content, the more a spoon is worth.
Decoration: The level of detail and intricacy in a spoon‘s design impacts its value significantly. Cutlery with hand-chased patterns, enamel inlays, or jeweled embellishments command high prices. Look for ornate motifs like floral scrollwork, animals, mythology, and family crests.
Condition: The better shape an antique spoon is in, the more it will be worth. Serious collectors look for pieces with crisp details, no dents, and an even patina. Some amount of tarnish is expected in older silver, but severe pitting or corrosion diminishes value.
Provenance: Spoons with an interesting ownership history or connection to historical events can be very desirable. A piece once owned by a prominent family or documented in an old painting will be more valuable than a comparable example with no known background.
Another thing to note is that rare serving pieces like ladles, sugar spoons, or mote spoons tend to be worth more than regular place-setting spoons of the same age and quality.
Of course, a spoon‘s value ultimately comes down to what the market will bear. Just because a seller claims their wares are "rare" doesn‘t necessarily mean they‘ll be snapped up for big bucks. Savvy collectors carefully weigh all the variables and trust their instincts.
That said, the following examples show that antique spoon enthusiasts are often willing to pay top dollar for extraordinary pieces that tick the right boxes…
Record-Breaking Antique Spoon Sales
Let‘s take a look at some of the highest prices ever paid for single antique spoons:
- Paul Revere, Jr. Silver Tablespoons, circa 1790 – $83,650
This remarkable set of six tablespoons was handcrafted by the legendary American patriot Paul Revere, who was a highly skilled silversmith in addition to his Revolutionary exploits. Featuring dainty dropped bowls and elegant handles monogrammed with the initials of the wealthy Sargent family, these gorgeous spoons display Revere‘s unrivaled artistry. They crossed the auction block at Heritage Auctions in 2021 and set a world record price for antique American silver spoons.
- Paul Revere, Jr. Silver Table Spoon, Boston, circa 1790 – $32,500
Here‘s another Paul Revere masterpiece that commanded an impressive sum. This single spoon offered at Christie‘s in 2015 is an outstanding example of Revere‘s Hanoverian pattern, distinguished by an elongated rattail bowl and graceful midrib handle. The slight wear on the bowl attests to its regular use but doesn‘t detract from its beauty. Its pristine condition and clear maker‘s mark undoubtedly played into its value.
- A Russian Silver & Enamel Spoon, Maria Semenova, Moscow, 1908-1917 – $18,750
Moving across the Atlantic, Russian silversmiths also created some of the world‘s most collectable antique spoons. This stunning example made in the early 20th century features a delicate polychrome cloisonné enamel bowl depicting varicolored flowers and foliage. Its gold-washed silver handle is embellished with a twisted stem motif. This spoon‘s breathtaking color and immaculate condition solidified it as a "holy grail" for Russian silver collectors.
- George III Silver Lace-Back Spoon, London 1764 – £16,000 ($22,000)
Lace-back spoons rank among the most coveted subcategories of English silver flatware. These large serving pieces, used for eating peas or other small vegetables, feature intricately pierced and engraved bowls resembling fine lace. Only a few London workshops made this demanding style during a brief period in the mid-18th century. The rarity and exquisite craftsmanship of these utensils makes them highly sought after. This gorgeous example bears the dual marks of respected silversmiths William Plummer and William Fernell.
- Chinese Export Silver Spoon, Wang Hing & Co., Canton, Late 19th Century – $12,500
Chinese export silver is a fascinating collecting niche encompassing elaborately decorated wares made for the Western market in the 18th and 19th centuries. This remarkable spoon from the famed Hong Kong retailer Wang Hing & Co. boasts a magnificently modeled dragon emerging from the bowl and climbing the handle. Accented with mixed-metal gold washes, this sculptural utensil is a true work of art. Very few dragon spoons of this exceptional quality have survived, accounting for its impressive price.
While five-figure spoons are out of reach for most of us, these extraordinary specimens illustrate the pinnacle of the art form. Luckily, you don‘t need to spend a fortune to enjoy antique spoons, as quality examples can be found at all price points.
How to Care For Your Antique Spoons
To preserve your antique spoons for generations to come, it‘s important to follow a few key conservation practices:
Storage: Keep spoons in a cool, dry place ideally enclosed in a fabric-lined box or display case with dividers to avoid scratches. Never wrap utensils in rubber bands, plastic, or newspaper, as these can cause permanent damage. Silver and steel should be stored separately.
Handling: Always handle spoons with clean, dry hands. Skin oils can etch into metals. Be especially gentle with decorative enamel spoons or anything with gemstones, as these can chip or crack if mishandled.
Cleaning: For general polishing, use a soft cotton cloth with a non-abrasive commercial silver cleaner. Carefully rub parallel with the grain and avoid submerging utensils in liquid. A mild soap solution can be used on enameled surfaces. Have any repairs done by a professional restorer.
Display: Spoons with inlay, enamel, or gilding should be kept out of direct sunlight, as UV rays can fade colors. Avoid displaying silver near heat sources like fireplaces or vents. Rotate your displays periodically so the same utensils aren‘t exposed for too long.
With proper care, your treasured spoons can be enjoyed for many lifetimes. Now, let‘s address some frequently asked questions about the antique spoon trade.
Antique Spoon FAQs
Q: How old does a spoon have to be to qualify as an "antique"?
A: There‘s no official rule, but many collectors and dealers consider utensils at least 100 years old to be antiques. That means a spoon made in the 1920s could now be called an antique. "Vintage" usually refers to items more than 40 years old.
Q: What‘s the best way for a beginner to start collecting antique spoons?
A: I recommend starting by learning about different silver marks, patterns, and styles. Visit museums, antiques shops, and shows to train your eye. Decide what types most appeal to you personally, rather than just chasing trends. Always buy from reputable, established dealers who offer money-back guarantees until you‘re confident in your knowledge.
Q: Is it okay to use antique spoons for everyday eating and serving?
A: It depends on the spoon‘s condition and value. Museum-quality pieces or anything with fragile enameling or jewels are best reserved for display only. But sturdier specimens without sentimental value can certainly be enjoyed at the table if you treat them gently. Just be sure to hand wash!
Q: I think I found an unmarked antique spoon. How can I identify and date it?
A: Tracing an unknown utensil is a bit like detective work. Note the style, decoration, and metallic composition, then consult a silver collector‘s encyclopedia or online database to find similar examples. Distinctive wear patterns on the bowl and underside of the stem can also provide dating clues. When in doubt, take it to a professional appraiser for an expert opinion.
Q: What are some red flags to watch out for when buying antique spoons online?
A: Beware of sellers using stock photos rather than detailed images of the actual utensil for sale. Blurry, dark pictures can hide flaws. Be suspicious of deals that seem "too good to be true" – they probably are. Avoid anyone who can‘t provide clear answers about a spoon‘s history, hallmarks, and condition. And look out for words like "in the style of" or "replica", which indicate you‘re looking at a copy rather than a genuine antique.
With a discerning eye and these tips in mind, you‘re well on your way to becoming an antique spoon aficionado. Welcome to this captivating collecting community!
The Enduring Allure of Antique Spoons
From once being a prehistoric crucial eating implement to evolving into a showpiece for artistry and extravagance, the humble spoon has lived many lives through the centuries. When you hold an antique spoon, you‘re connected not only to the individual who dined with it, but to the larger legacy of craftsmanship and culture.
Antique spoons remind us that even the most mundane everyday objects can be elevated to high art in the hands of a master. Whether you‘re drawn to their sparkle, history, or storytelling, there are endless opportunities to delight in these petite silver wonders.
I hope you‘ve enjoyed this deep dive into the world‘s most celebrated antique spoons. The next time you encounter one at a shop or show, I bet you‘ll look at it with new appreciation. Perhaps you‘ll even be inspired to start your own treasure hunt for a storied spoon. Trust me, you‘ll never see the utensil drawer the same way again!
