Victorian Sterling Silver Decorative Teaspoon – VR Crown Finial – Birmingham 1896, John Millward Banks – “EMSP” Engraved

A charming late-Victorian sterling silver souvenir/commemorative teaspoon with a twisted stem and a finial formed as the crowned “VR” cypher of Queen Victoria.

Details

   •   Maker: John Millward Banks

   •   Assay Office: Birmingham

   •   Date: 1896 (clear date letter)

   •   Length: just over 12 cm

   •   Weight: 11 grams

   •   Design: Decorative twist stem with crowned VR terminal

   •   Engraving: Bowl engraved “E M S P” in period script

   •   Condition: Very good antique estate condition, with only light surface wear and a gentle patina from age. No dents, splits, or repairs.

About the engraving “EMSP”

The four-letter engraving most likely represents a Victorian organisation, school, society, or club, with the “P” often indicating Prize or Presentation. These types of spoons were commonly awarded for achievements or gifted as commemoratives in the late 19th century. While the exact society has not yet been identified, it adds intrigue and potential for further research.

A highly collectable example of late-Victorian commemorative silver, desirable for both its VR royal motif and its crisp set of Birmingham 1896 hallmarks by John Millward Banks.