Cliff Nunn - Antique Silver and Decorative Arts
Rare Chicago Coin Silver Teaspoon with City Mark by Isaac Spear/Speer
SOLD
Offered is a very rare and fairly early example of Chicago coin silver from the 1840s or 1850s, by Chicago silversmith Isaac Spear (also spelled Speer). Mr. Spear's information appears below the item description. This piece has a lightly engraved period script monogram and a good clear maker's mark. The CHICAGO city mark is scarce and difficult to find. This piece measures about 5 7/8 inches in length and weighs about 14 grams. Condition is good overall, with some slight dimples in the bowl and modest tip wear, but no splits or repairs. All in all a fine rare Chicago coin silver spoon!
Isaac Spear seems to be the same man born in New Jersey in 1809 and working in Chicago by about 1839. He worked alone until about 1852, and then alone and in partnerships into the 1860s. He appears to have died by 1879. His other marks are spelled SPEER, but orthography was not fixed at this time, and it is also possible that the die sinker misspelled his name on this early I.SPEAR mark. Pieces bearing this mark seem to be uncommon.