Late 18th Century Newport, Rhode Island Teaspoon by Thomas Arnold

Offered is a good 1790s American coin silver teaspoon by noted silversmith Thomas Arnold (1735-1828), who worked in Newport circa 1760-1817. Mr. Arnold had the interesting habit of marking many of his spoons, like this one, with both his initials mark and his full name mark. He was also interesting in that he was a prominent citizen of Newport. Per his Wikipedia entry, "According to the Newport Mercury of September 12, 1774, he received a master's degree from college in Providence, where he was later elected a member of faculty and in 1800 chosen as a trustee. As a prominent citizen of Newport, in 1774 he served as a delegate to conventions in Philadelphia, in 1789 was appointed Justice of Peace, and in 1817 was appointed Inspector of Customs for the Port of East Greenwich." This spoon measures about 5 3/8 inches in length and weighs about 9 grams. It is is struck with two clear maker's marks, and is also engraved with period block initials "RB" and lovely decoration. Aside from a ding to the side of the spoon bowl (see pictures), this spoon is in very good condition, with no splits or repairs. All in all a nice example of 18th Century Newport silver!