Sheffield England spoons

[KenM]

I have several large serving spoons that have the letters WA inside of a rectangular box followed by the words Sheffield, England.
I have been told that items from Sheffield England which they call plate is actually sterling?? Is there any truth to that?
What can anyone tell me about these spoons.

[2209patrick]

Here's a good definition of plate:
http://www.925-1000.com/silverglossary3.html

Believe the WA mark was used by William Adams of Sheffield.
Don't think this is the same William Adams of Birmingham that is listed in the silverplate marks section.
Not sure, but I think this firm is owned by Towle Silversmiths, Newburyport, Massachusetts.

Pat.