What is a silver shovel caddy spoon?

A silver shovel caddy spoon is a miniature utensil shaped like a spade, created to scoop loose tea leaves. They were kept alongside tea caddies to portion out leaves accurately before the widespread use of tea bags.

How do I date an antique caddy spoon?

You date these spoons by examining the stamped hallmarks for town marks, duty marks, and date letters. Assay office records match these symbols to specific years, particularly across Georgian and Victorian production.

Were these spoons used only for tea?

While primarily designed for tea caddies, some shovel forms also served as sugar spoons. Their broad bowls made them suitable for transferring various dry condiments used during tea service.

What styles are common in these spoons?

Common styles range from plain Georgian shovel designs to Victorian pieces embossed with flowers and scrolls. Later examples include Edwardian novelties and twentieth-century modernist interpretations.