NNP

Three Joseph Richardson Sr. and Jr. American Coin Silver Place Spoons. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, circa 1750-1795; 9-1/4 inches long (larger, Jr. examples); 6.20 troy ounces. Condition: Errant nicking and scratching, very few minor pin dents, light nuance to underside bowl of one (J.R., Jr.) spoon from resting on table, otherwise in overall good condition. Joseph Richardson, Sr. (1711-1784) made the smaller spoon that utilizes an early double-stamped IR mark in a rectangular cartouche to reverse stem, palmette flourish at bowl and stem joint, engraved to reverse terminal AIE in period script, circa 1750. Joseph Richardson, Jr. (1752-1831) made the larger two spoons that utilize a double-stamped JR mark in a rectangular cartouche, engraved to terminals W in period script, circa 1795. The Richardson family was well-known in colonial Philadelphia goldsmith and silversmith circles. Francis Richardson started the family business in 1702, a business continued by Joseph Richardson, Sr. and Joseph Richardson, Jr. President Washington appointed the younger Joseph Richardson to the position of U.S. Mint assayer in 1795, and he held that position until his death in 1831. His younger brother, Nathaniel, described Joseph as a man "under the medium size, light, active, of quick perception, and prompt decision." Ex: Eric P. Newman Numismatic Education Society.

Heritage Newman IX, November 2017, lot 15061, realized $552. Images and description courtesy of Heritage Auctions.