Handle assembly

A handle assembly which is attachable to a conventional valve stem and includes a decorative handle member is disclosed. In a preferred embodiment, an adapter element has an interior splined surface that mounts on the valve stem. The adapter also includes external splines and an annular flange. The adapter is positioned within a central opening in an escutcheon. A mounting screw fastens the adapter to the valve stem, with the escutcheon trapped beneath the adapter due to the presence of the annular flange. A post member has internal splines which engage the external splines of the adapter so that the parts rotate together. In addition, the post member has external splines which engage a splined opening in a handle. The handle comprises a bottom lever bar and a top lever bar. A strap cap is positioned over the handle and has a threaded hole to receive an upwardly-directed bolt. The bolt presses the handle between the strap cap and the post member. In the final step of assembly, a threaded surface on the escutcheon is rotatively engaged with a threaded surface on the post member, thereby pressing the adapter element between the escutcheon and the post member.