Antique Silver Christening Sets
The traditional gift to mark a baptism — a cased silver spoon, fork and sometimes a napkin ring. Charming, sentimental and very collectable. A guide to identifying, dating and valuing antique silver christening sets.
Not Sure What Your Christening Set Is Worth?
Send a photo — including the marks on each piece and the case — and we'll value it free, with no obligation. We reply within one working day.
For generations the silver christening set was the traditional gift to mark a baptism — a small spoon and fork, and often a napkin ring, presented in a satin-lined fitted case. Made in great numbers through the Victorian, Edwardian and later periods, the best are by named makers and beautifully cased, and they remain a charming, very giftable corner of antique silver.
What is a silver christening set?
Typically a matched spoon and fork — sometimes with a napkin ring or pusher — in a fitted presentation case. Patterns follow the great flatware designs (Old English, Fiddle, King's) in miniature, and many are prettily engraved with a name or date. Sets by noted makers such as Mappin & Webb or sterling examples in fine cases are the most sought after; Victorian and Edwardian dates are common, earlier sets scarcer.
What collectors look for
Original case
The fitted, satin-lined box matters — a complete cased set is worth far more than loose pieces.
Named makers
Mappin & Webb and other respected firms, plus crisp sterling marks, lift value.
Fine patterns
King's, Queen's and decorative patterns over plain Fiddle; pretty engraving adds charm.
Earlier date
Georgian and early-Victorian sets are scarcer than the plentiful later examples.
What Determines Value
The factors we assess on a silver christening set:
- Completeness — Original fitted case and all pieces present.
- Maker — Mappin & Webb and noted makers over unmarked pieces.
- Pattern — King's, Queen's and decorative patterns over plain.
- Date — Earlier Georgian/Victorian sets scarcer; the hallmark dates it.
- Condition — Bright pieces, intact case lining, no splits or wear-through.
- Engraving — A pretty original name or date adds charm and appeal.
Marks are on each piece — find the lion passant for sterling.
Sterling, maker and the case
Confirm sterling via the lion passant on each piece; many later children's sets are silver plate (marked EPNS) and worth far less. Then maker, pattern and above all the original case drive value — a complete cased sterling set by a named maker far outvalues a loose plated spoon. Our silver hallmark guide helps with the small marks.
Sits with the wider world of antique silver flatware and small silver — related guides: card cases and vinaigrettes. Sell via sell your silver.
Value Your Christening Set
Send photographs of the set, the case and the marks on each piece, and we'll give you an honest, no-obligation valuation.
⚠️ Strictly by appointment only — no walk-ins at either showroom.
Frequently Asked Questions
Antique silver christening sets — common questions.
What is a silver christening set?
A baptism gift — usually a matched silver spoon and fork, often with a napkin ring, in a fitted presentation case. Made in quantity through the Victorian, Edwardian and later periods.
Are silver christening sets valuable?
Modest to moderate, depending on maker, pattern and completeness. A complete cased sterling set by a named maker is worth far more than a loose or plated piece.
Does the original case matter?
Very much. An original fitted, satin-lined case with all pieces present greatly increases value and appeal — loose pieces are worth considerably less.
How do I tell sterling from plate?
Look for the lion passant on each piece. Many children's sets are silver plate, marked EPNS or similar, and worth far less. Send a photo of the marks and we'll confirm.
Does an engraved name reduce value?
Generally not for these — a period name or date is part of the charm of a christening set and rarely puts collectors off, unlike some other silver.
Send Us Your Christening Set Photographs
Attach photos of the set, the case and the marks on each piece. We'll respond within one working day.