Antique Britannia Standard Silver Trefid Rat Tail Pattern Spoon

This exceptional antique William III Britannia standard silver spoon has been crafted in the Trefid rat tail pattern.

The anterior surface of the Trefid spoon handle terminal is embellished with the contemporary engraved initials ‘MP’, in addition to the later engraved initials ‘EL’; the reverse surface is plain apart from the feature hallmarks.

The reverse of this impressive example of antique silverware features a rat tail with bead ornamentation to the rounded bowl.

Britannia silver, the Britannia silver standard of 958 (95.84% of fine silver), denoted by the icon of the seated Britannia holding an oval shield, was introduced by William III in 1697. This was to indicate the slightly higher standard of silver from sterling silver standard of 925 (92.5% of fine silver).

Condition
This antique William III silver Trefid spoon is a very good gauge of silver, excellent quality and in excellent condition in keeping with age. The British hallmarks struck to the reverse of the handle are clear; the date letter has wear in keeping with age and location, but remains legible.

Dimensions
Length 19.2cm/7.6″
Length of handle 12cm/4.7″
Length of bowl 7.1cm/2.8″
Width of bowl 4.2cm/1.7″

Weight
1.6 troy ounces/50.9g

Maker: John Cory
Date: circa 1700.
Origin: London, England

Video: A video of this fine piece is available upon request

Reflections in photographs may detract from the true representation of this piece of Edwardian dining silverware.