Exeter Trefid Spoon, 1710

This is a fine example of a West Country silver trefid spoon dating from the New Standard period (1697 to 1720) when the purity of silver was increased to the Britannia Standard (95.8% pure as opposed to 92.5% for the old Sterling Standard). During this period, silversmiths were required to register a maker's mark with the first two letters of their surname and in this case the clear "Ri" maker's mark for Edmond Richard of Exeter can be seen. The reverse terminal bears a set of dated betrothal initials and the spoon has a great feel about it. It is in fine condition with a good unworn bowl and original patina.