Art Deco Coffee Bean Spoons Value Guide

These Art Deco coffee bean spoons are quintessential examples of 1920s-1930s British table service, designed specifically for use with small demitasse cups. They are highly collectible for their transition from natural materials to vibrant, synthetic Bakelite finials that mimic the shape of roasted coffee beans.

What Is Art Deco Coffee Bean Spoons Worth?

The typical price range for Art Deco Coffee Bean Spoons is $45 - $50 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence of all seven spoons in the set significantly impacts the $45-$50 valuation.
• The condition and variety of the multicolored Bakelite finials, specifically looking for chips or fading in the plastic.
• The state of the silver plating, as excessive wear or 'bleeding' of the base metal can reduce the item's appeal.
• The inclusion of an original presentation box, which is common for these Art Deco era sets and adds historical value.

How to Identify Art Deco Coffee Bean Spoons?

• Look for the distinct 'coffee bean' shape on the finials, which should be made of hard, colorful Bakelite rather than bone or real beans.
• Check for silver-plate hallmarks or 'EPNS' stamps on the stems, characteristic of United Kingdom manufacturing from the 1920-1940 era.
• Verify the set size; while often sold in sixes, this specific set features seven spoons with multicolored finials.
• Examine the join between the silver-plated stem and the plastic finial for signs of period-correct construction.

History of Art Deco Coffee Bean Spoons

Coffee bean spoons became popular in the United Kingdom during the 1920s and 1930s. The finials were designed to represent roasted coffee beans, transitioning from early versions made of real coffee beans or bone to the colorful synthetic plastics like bakelite or galalith seen here. They were a staple of the Art Deco era and were used specifically for serving coffee in small demitasse cups after dinner.