Are Souvenir Spoons Worth Anything? A Complete Value Guide

Souvenir spoons are one of the most widely collected antiques—but are they actually worth anything? The short answer is: yes, some are—but many are not.

In this expert guide, we explain how to value souvenir spoons, what makes certain examples rare, and how much silver spoons are worth today. Whether you’ve inherited a spoon collection or are thinking of selling, this guide will help you understand what you have. If you would like to discover the value of your collection, our specialists are happy to help, request a free valuation today or send us images via WhatsApp for expert advice.

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A small section of a collection of 396 fully hallmarked silver & enamel souvenir spoons to be auctioned later this year, estimated at £2,500 – £5,000 

Are Souvenir Spoons Worth Anything?

Most souvenir spoons have modest value, but certain types can be surprisingly valuable.

Typically low value:

• Silver-plated souvenir spoons
• Mass-produced tourist spoons
• Modern collector spoons

Potentially valuable:

• Sterling silver souvenir spoons
• Antique (Victorian / early 20th century) examples
• Enamel-decorated spoons
• Rare or unusual designs

In short:
👉 Material + age + rarity = value

Two Keswick School of Industrial Arts silver spoons, sold for £130 

How Much Are Souvenir Spoons Worth?

Here’s a realistic guide based on recent auction results:

• Silver-plated spoons: £1 – £5 each (often sold in bulk)
• Sterling silver spoons: £10 – £50+ each
• Antique / rare examples: £50 – £150+
• Large collections (mixed): £20 – £200+ depending on content

Collections containing high-quality silver or unusual pieces tend to perform best at auction.

What Determines the Value of Souvenir Spoons?

Condition

Damage, heavy polishing, or wear can reduce value. Clean but original condition is preferred.

Sterling silver lot on the left (£85), silver-plated lot on the right £22)

Material (Most Important Factor)

Sterling silver (925): highly valuable

Silver-plated (EPNS): lower value

Nickel silver / alloy: minimal value

Age

Older spoons—especially Victorian examples—are generally more desirable, particularly when handmade or finely detailed.

Design & Rarity

Look for:

• Enamel decoration
• Figural handles (e.g. landmarks, people, symbols)
• Commemorative spoons (events, exhibitions)

How to Tell if Your Spoon is Valuable

Check your spoons for these key indicators:

• Hallmarks (e.g. “925” or assay marks)
• Weight (heavier often = more silver)
• Enamel or decorative detail
• Early production (pre-1930s)
• Good condition (no damage)

If your spoons tick several of these boxes, they may be worth more than expected.

Are Silver Spoons Worth More Than Souvenir Spoons?

Yes—solid silver spoons are usually worth more than typical souvenir spoons.

This is because their value is partly based on silver content (scrap value) as well as collectability.

For example:

• A plain sterling silver spoon may be worth £10–£30 based on weight
• A decorative antique spoon could exceed £50–£100+

Are Silver-Plated Spoons Worth Anything?

Generally, silver-plated spoons have very little resale value.

They contain only a thin layer of silver, meaning:

• No real scrap value
• Lower demand from collectors

They are usually sold in bulk job lots unless particularly decorative.

Do Spoon Collections Sell Well?

Yes—spoon collections can sell well at auction, especially when:

• They include sterling silver pieces
• They are well-presented or themed
• They contain unusual or rare examples

However, mixed collections of low-value spoons are typically grouped together.

Frequently Asked Questions About Souvenir Spoon Value