Apostle Spoon Value Guide

Apostle spoons are iconic collectibles originating from pre-Reformation England, traditionally gifted by godparents during christenings to represent spiritual protection. This specific UK-made era from 1890-1920 represents a significant Victorian and Edwardian revival where these religious figures became popular souvenir items.

What affects the value of Apostle Spoon?

• Completeness of the set, as a full group of thirteen spoons is significantly more desirable than individual pieces.
• The condition of the electroplating, with higher values for spoons lacking 'bleeding' where the base metal shows through.
• The detail and clarity of the figural casting at the terminal of the handle.
• Identification of the specific apostle, as certain figures may be rarer than others within the secondary market.

How to Identify Apostle Spoon?

• Look for a figural terminal at the top of the handle depicting one of the twelve apostles or Jesus Christ as the Master.
• Check for 'EPNS' or 'Electroplated Nickel Silver' marks indicating the late 19th to early 20th-century British manufacturing process.
• Identify the specific saint by the unique attributes or symbols held by the figure in relief.
• Examine the handle for the characteristic late-Victorian revival styling common between 1890 and 1920.

History of Apostle Spoon

Apostle spoons became highly popular in pre-Reformation England and Germany, traditionally given as christening gifts by godparents to their godchildren. A full set would consist of thirteen spoons, representing the twelve apostles and Jesus Christ as the Master spoon. This specific example features a figure in relief at the top of the handle, a style that saw a major revival during the late 19th and early 20th centuries as collectible souvenirs.