This is a historic souvenir advertising spoon from the late 1890s, commemorating the USS Maine and its commander, Captain Charles Sigsbee. These spoons were often given away as promotional premiums by the Old Grist Mill Wheat Coffee company (Potter & Wrightington) following the ship's explosion in Havana Harbor in 1898, which triggered the Spanish-American War.
Recommended Title:
Antique USS Maine Battleship Spoon Captain Sigsbee Old Grist Mill 1898 Souvenir
Item Specifics:
Type: Souvenir Spoon / Advertising Premium
Composition: Silverplate (likely "Crown Silverplate" or nickel-plated base metal)
Length: 4.25 inches
Era: Spanish-American War (1898-1902)
Maker/Brand: Comp. Old Grist Mill (Potter & Wrightington)
Handle Design: The top of the handle features a relief portrait of Captain Sigsbee in uniform. Below him is a patriotic shield with stars and stripes, followed by a nautical anchor and a "rope-twist" stem.
Bowl Design: The bowl is embossed with a detailed scene of the U.S. Battleship Maine and the inscription: "Blown up in Havana Harbor Feb 15, 1898."
Reverse Markings: The back of the handle is clearly stamped "COMP. OLD GRIST MILL", identifying it as a promotional item for the popular "Wheat Coffee" substitute of that era.
Condition: Note the heavy patina and some surface pitting/wear (visible in photos). For antique collectors, this "authentic" look is often preferred over a polished finish, but mention it clearly as "vintage condition with age-appropriate wear."