13 Hallmarked Sterling Silver Apostle Spoon Set - Original Wood Case - 1978 Limited Edition

These popular, but quite rare, sets have been produced, commissioned as status symbols or wedding gifts, for centuries by silversmiths in obscure villages or in major towns.

Spoons were often very personal items, typically carried when dining as a guest, but they were occasionally made in sets for private use or as gifts. A full set of apostle spoons, popular in the Tudor and Caroline periods, numbered at least 12, with the 13th spoon as part of bigger sets. Most of the older sets have long since been broken up or melted down during times of war or during financial depression periods.

Apostle spoons, in modern terms, are one of the oldest form of collector silver spoons available. The finial is designed in the shape of one of the 12 Apostles, although the specific details and attributes of each apostle often varies from culture to culture, or period and location. A full set of Apostle spoons will consist of twelve or thirteen spoons, usually silver, with a small figure of one of the twelve Apostles at the end of each stem -- if a set of thirteen, Jesus also is then included (the Master spoon). The Apostles are distinguished from each other by their respective emblems or attributes -- usually the instrument of their death. 

These spoons were most frequently gifted individually, rather than as complete sets (such a gift being reserved only for the wealthy). The bestowal of such a spoon was a generous gift indeed, as the majority of spoons at this time were made of wood, or at best, pewter. Since they were luxury items at all times, affluent relations or grandparents would typically buy one spoon representing a baby's "Apostle" and it would be presented to the child at its Christening. This spoon would be used only by that person and it would be kept for life. Thus we see that most of the old Apostle spoons show considerable wear both at the finial, and at the bowl. It is thought that the phrase "to be born with a silver spoon" comes from this tradition.

Now available, for your kind consideration:

A Modern Limited Edition Sterling Silver Apostle Spoon Set (13) - with signed Certificate of Authenticity, dated July 1st, 1978.  Issued and signed by the Heritage Collection in 1978, limited to 1000 sets.  This set is numbered 167 on each spoon.

The complete set comprises of 13 sterling silver Apostle spoons, depicting the 12 apostles, each gilded and carrying his symbol of martyrdom. This full set includes the Master spoon, with Jesus Christ holding the orb and cross.  Authentic replicas of the fifteenth century originals, as made by SA Mint. The Apostles are well modeled, with exquisite detail.

Large sterling silver spoons with the finials plated in 24 carat gold.  The hallmarks are still clear.  Each spoon engraved on the stem with a different Apostle name and a slightly larger one as the Master.

This set is numbered 167 of 1000. 

Condition:  The spoons are all present, in well preserved, very good condition - no tarnish.  The original wooden case in excellent condition.

Please note:  Images are of the actual set.  More photos can be provided on request.

Thank you for looking!