You are here:

Silver and Flatware/1692 silver spoon

Advertisement

Expert: Michelle Lieberman - 8/27/2009


Question

salem spoon
Hi there, I have a 1692 silver spoon that I'd like to know more about and what it maybe worth. Thank you

Answer
Hello Scott.

Your spoon actually dates to 1891.  It is a well-known souvenir spoon, called the Salem Witch Spoon.

In 1890, after having traveled through Europe and seeing all of the souvenir spoons there, folks at the Daniel Low Company issued the first souvenir spoon in the U.S.  The first spoon they came up with was a Witch Spoon with a different design as yours.  The first spoon was made by the Wm. B. Durgin Co.  The issue was such a success for Low that they created another spoon, the one you have.  The 2nd issue Witch Spoon was made the next year by The Gorham Co.  Within that first a year, thousands of spoons were being made by manufacturers all across the country.

So the Daniel Low Co. and the Salem Witch Spoon is credited for launching the souvenir spoon industry in the U.S.  Pretty nifty, eh?

As for value, Sterling teaspoons generally go for about $50.

Regards,
Michelle

Silver and Flatware

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Michelle Lieberman

Expertise

My expertise is in the area of American sterling silver and coin silver flatware and holloware, including identifying silversmiths and makers, types and patterns of flatware and their usage. I am unable to answer questions pertaining to silverplate or foreign silver.

Experience

With over 25 years experience in selling vintage silver, I now devote much of my time educating others in this field.

Education/Credentials
BA California State University Los Angeles

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.