Expert: Martin G Roberts - 9/20/2008

Question
Hello Martin ,
I found a pewter teaspoon here in Mobile, Alabama on a construction site some time ago and have often wondered about it's age and origin. It is 5 1/2 inches long. There are four markings stamped on the underside of the handle. They read INO YA TE C in a straight line. The last stamp is a little weak and there could have been an additional letter. Your help is appreciated.


Answer
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These are the marks of John Yates (INo is an abbreviation for John - this is a very late use of I for J; C should read S). He worked in Birmingham, England, active from about 1805 to the mid 19th Century (died 1876). He was a prolific spoon maker, and his wares are commonly encountered and widely distributed, though his teaspoons are not the commonest type found.

Hope that helps.

Martin
www.antique-metalware.co.uk