This is an antique Japanese military sake cup, decorated with a very detailed map of Northeast China, with the railroad clearly marked from Port Arthur to Harbin. The words are "Qing Garrison Victorious Return Commemoration" and "Automobile Unit" and the soldier's name Kurokane. With the name "Qing" referring to China, this is a cup that predates 1911. Japan's first automobile didn't arrive (from France) in the late 19th century, and it was only in 1907 that Japan started producing its first ever cars. An automobile unit would've been probably for the most important VIPs - commanders and what not, making this quite rare and unusual.

Condition: Excellent - light fading of the gold

Size: 2" across