Novelty Spoon Appraisal

Betty Lou Souvenir Spoon

This item is a decorative souvenir spoon, likely crafted from silver-plated metal given the stated context and observable tarnishing. The spoon's overall length appears to be approximately 4-5 inches, consistent with a demitasse or souvenir spoon size. The handle is slender and decorative, culminating in a three-dimensional figural finial depicting a young girl with curly hair, wearing a dress and possibly holding something, although precise details are obscured by the silver's oxidation and the resolution. Below the figure, the name "BETTY LOU" is impressed vertically down the handle in a clear, block-letter font, with a small star-like embellishment separating 'BETTY' and 'LOU'. The bowl of the spoon is ovular and relatively shallow. The spoon exhibits significant tarnishing, particularly within the bowl and around the intricate details of the finial and lettering, presenting a dull, darkened, and somewhat mottled appearance. This tarnish is characteristic of silver or silver-plated items exposed to air over time and, as noted, indicates it 'needs polished.' Despite the surface discoloration, the physical condition appears excellent, with no visible dents, bends, chips, or significant scratches. The craftsmanship, particularly the detailed figural finial and clear impressed lettering, suggests good quality manufacturing. Without specific maker's marks visible in the provided images, it's challenging to pinpoint an exact manufacturing origin or date, but its style suggests a mid-20th-century aesthetic, possibly from the 1930s-1950s, a common period for personalized souvenir items. The excellent condition beneath the tarnish suggests it has been well-preserved.