Coffee is good for talent... Ralph Waldo Emerson 

{HISTORY}

Manufactured by one of the hospitality industry's leading dishware makers, these Sterling China Vitrified China coffee cups and saucers were made in the 1960s in East Liverpool, Ohio expressly for the Chinese restaurant industry.

Sterling China had been in business since 1917 and had steadily built up a reputation for craftsmanship and design that appealed particularly to restaurants and hotels all around the country. By the time the 1950s rolled around, Sterling was at the top of its game, expanding the pottery into newly acquired plants, including one in Puerto Rico.

Especially known for their glazing techniques and lasting design durability, the pottery continued to grow and thrive throughout the 20th century. But, unfortunately, in the early 2000s, Sterling China closed, just shy of their 100th birthday, as they were unable to compete with foreign markets.

This chocolate brown floral pattern was known as Delph and also came in a blue and white version. Heavy in weight (each cup and saucer weighs over 1lb), the saucers feature the rolled rim design which means they were intended for busy restaurants that served lots of customers on a daily basis. The rolled rim made it easier for wait staff to grab the dishes more quickly.   

Sometimes restaurant ware will give you clues as to the specific eating establishment they came from. These do not. But their gorgeous brown floral is a rare hard-to-find pattern among collectors. Universally lovely all year round these are especially pleasing aesthetically during the Autumn months and the Thanksgiving holiday.  

These cups and saucers are in pristine condition. There are six cups and saucer sets available, but they are being sold individually. If you would like multiple sets, please mark your desired quantity on the drop-down tab.

{SPECIAL FEATURES}

- Colors include bright white and chocolate brown

- Rare, hard to find color in this pattern

- Rolled edge on saucer edge

- Stamped on back with maker's mark and date code D8 which stands for 1963 

- Each set includes one cup and one matching saucer

{CONDITION}

In excellent vintage condition. Contains no chips or cracks. Ultra shiny glaze. 

{SIZE}

Each cup measures 3.75" inches (diameter) x 2.5 "inches (height). Each saucer measures 6" inches (diameter). Each cup and saucer combined weighs 1.3lbs.

{FOR THE COLLECTOR}

Find matching dessert plates here...