This is an antique Japanese military sake cup, decorated with a six pointed star on the front. The words on the back are "Imperial Military Personnel Support Association". This was one of those charity associations set up around the Russo Japanese war to support veterans and especially their families - particularly those who died in combat. This way, the soldiers could really give the army their all without worrying about the livelihood of those they leave behind. There's a mark inside the base ring that says "pure silver". For Japanese items, the "pure silver" mark is a high purity silver - better than sterling, which is 90%. The cup weighs about 84g. At current market prices the silver alone is worth about $40.

Condition: Mint

Size: 3.5" across