MERIDEN BRITTANIA METAL COLLAPSIBLE DRINKING CUP

Description

Nice example of a mid 19th century collapsible drinking cup in its original carrying case.  Cup measures 3" tall when fully extended.  Cup was made by the Meriden Best Brittania Co. and is so marked on the top of the japaned tin case.  Top of lid reads: "Pocket drinking cup Meriden Best Brittania Metal  Meriden Conn."  This company was established in 1852.   Upper band of the cup has a beautifully hand engraved design surrounding a plaque to which a presentation or initials could be engraved.  This area however is blank.  But what is most interesting is at the bottom of the cup.  There are initials scratched into the metal:  M M O -or- O W W  depending on which way you turn the cup.  There is also a very small scratched: MAS and what looks like a numeral 54.  Read into that what you want.  These markings were present when I acquired this cup many years ago.   I have never researched these markings.   Condition of the cup is perfect.  It holds liquid without any leakage at all.  Tin container is also in great condition with only about 75% of the japaned finish remaining.  No holes or dents found.  I have seen many folding cups but never one as fancy and unique as this one which is why I purchased it some 40 years ago.  See photos for best idea of item and condition.  Questions are welcomed.
I ship within 24 hrs. of receipt of payment.  Payment is due within 2 days of the close of the auction.
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