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Dinnerware

Original U.S. Lighthouse Service, U.S. Coast Guard

U.S. Navy, U.S. Shipping Board, steamship, etc.

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10488. Marc, Jacques F. Pacific Coast Steamship China. UBC Press. 2009. 182p. Hardcover.  300+ color and 80 b/w photographs. At the height of Pacific-coast steamship travel in the late 1800s and early 1900s, passengers enjoyed a sit-down dinner served on china with silver flatware. Today, the only places you can still find this china is at flea markets and antique shops or by diving at old dock sites and on shipwrecks. Pacific Coast Ship China identifies and dates shipping china used along the Pacific coast of North America. It identifies more than 280 china patterns used on vessels and in-shore establishments of shipping organizations registered in Alaska, Yukon Territory, British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, California, Idaho and Hawaii; it describes patterns used in coastal, intercoastal and transpacific services. In addition to passenger vessels, it documents the china used by freighter operations, oil companies, government services and yacht clubs. This easy-to-use guide identifies almost 300 china patterns. It provides collectors, museum technicians, divers, history buffs and anyone else interested in identifying and dating Pacific-coast ship china with all the information they need. It also includes brief descriptions of 73 Pacific-coast shipping companies and government services including Lighthouse Service and Coast Guard. (M). $79.95.

U. S. Lighthouse Service.

7463-9. United States Lighthouse Service “U.S.L.H.S.” Cream Pitcher c.1900. Original “U.S.L.H.S.” brown leafy pattern. This is a scarce original early china dinnerware piece from the United States Lighthouse Service manufactured of heavy white institutional type china, in the latter years of the Nineteenth Century for use in ships’ wardrooms and at the light stations. With only expected light wear, free of any cracks or major defects. There were three patterns used over the years by the Lighthouse Establishment and Service and this is the second of the three patterns. About 1900 a third pattern was instituted which included a turquoise lighthouse within a circle. Both patterns were then used up until 1938. Bottom is not marked. Creamer is fairly large and is quite clean, complete, no chips and in very good condition. Measures 5 ¾” high, 5 ¾” wide, 3 ½” deep. It is now extremely difficult to find these early lighthouse dinner pieces, particularly in this pattern. (VG+). $1595.

7463sss. United States Lighthouse Service Egg Cup in Original “U. S. L. H. S.” brown leafy pattern. This is a scarce original early china dinnerware piece from the United States Lighthouse Service manufactured of heavy white institutional type china, in the latter years of the Nineteenth Century for use in ships’ wardrooms and at the light stations. With only expected light wear, free of any cracks or major defects. There were three patterns used over the years by the Lighthouse Establishment and Service and this is the second of the three patterns. About 1900 the pattern was changed to a turquoise lighthouse within a circle. There are no other markings visible. Cup is unusually clean, complete, no chips or cracks in fine condition. Measurements 4”h x 2 5/8” diameter. It is now extremely difficult to find these early lighthouse dinner pieces. (VG). $685 net. (one available)

7463-7. United States Lighthouse Service “U.S.L.H.S.” Serving Bowl. Original “U.S.L.H.S.” brown leafy pattern. This is a scarce original early china dinnerware piece from the United States Lighthouse Service manufactured of heavy white institutional type china, in the latter years of the Nineteenth Century for use in ships’ wardrooms and at the light stations. With only expected light wear, free of any cracks or major defects. There were three patterns used over the years by the Lighthouse Establishment and Service and this is the second of the three patterns. About 1900 a third pattern was instituted which included a turquoise lighthouse within a circle. Both patterns were then used up until 1938. Bottom is marked “Jackson China 1932”. Bowl is oval and is quite large and is fairly clean, complete, one small chip to rim, light wear and in very good condition. Measurements 10 ¾” x 8 1/8” oval. It is now extremely difficult to find these early lighthouse dinner pieces, particularly in this pattern. (VG). $1185.

7463-5. United States Lighthouse Service “U.S.L.H.S.” Butter Pat c.1900. Original “U.S.L.H.S.” brown leafy pattern. This is a scarce original early china dinnerware piece from the United States Lighthouse Service manufactured of heavy white institutional type china, in the latter years of the Nineteenth Century for use in ships’ wardrooms and at the light stations. There were three patterns used over the years by the Lighthouse Establishment and Service and this is the second of the three patterns. About 1900 a third pattern was instituted which included a turquoise lighthouse within a circle. Both patterns were then used up until 1938. Bottom is marked “1929”.  Measurements 3 3/8” diameter. It is now extremely difficult to find these early lighthouse dinner pieces, particularly in this pattern. Without any chips, clean, very nice condition. (VG+). $395.

7463oo. United States Lighthouse Service “U.S.L.H.S.” Bowl. Original “U.S.L.H.S.” brown leafy pattern. This is a scarce original early china dinnerware piece from the United States Lighthouse Service manufactured of heavy white institutional type china, in the latter years of the Nineteenth Century for use in ships’ wardrooms and at the light stations. With only expected light wear, free of any cracks or major defects. There were three patterns used over the years by the Lighthouse Establishment and Service and this is the second of the three patterns. About 1900 a third pattern was instituted which included a turquoise lighthouse within a circle. Both patterns were then used up until 1938. Bottom is marked “Jackson China 1934”. Bowl is quite large and is unusually clean, complete, no chips or cracks, little wear and in near fine condition. Measurements 1 ¾” h x 9” diameter. It is now extremely difficult to find these early lighthouse dinner pieces, particularly in this pattern. (VG+).   $1285 net.

7463nnn. United States Lighthouse Service “U.S.L.H.S.” Bowl. Original “U.S.L.H.S.” brown leafy pattern. This is a scarce original early china dinnerware piece from the United States Lighthouse Service manufactured of heavy white institutional type china, in the latter years of the Nineteenth Century for use in ships’ wardrooms and at the light stations. With only expected light wear, free of any cracks or major defects. There were three patterns used over the years by the Lighthouse Establishment and Service and this is the second of the three patterns. About 1900 a third pattern was instituted which included a turquoise lighthouse within a circle. Both patterns were then used up until 1938. Bottom is marked “1862 Greenwood China, Trenton, NJ 1876”. Bowl is quite large and is unusually clean, complete, no chips or cracks, little wear and in near fine condition. Measurements 9 1/8” diameter. It is now extremely difficult to find these early lighthouse dinner pieces, particularly in this pattern. (VG+). $1285 net.

7463-1. United States Lighthouse Service “U.S.L.H.S.” Pitcher c.1900. Original “U.S.L.H.S.” brown leafy pattern. This is a scarce original early china dinnerware piece from the United States Lighthouse Service manufactured of heavy white institutional type china, in the latter years of the Nineteenth Century for use in ships’ wardrooms and at the light stations. There were three patterns used over the years by the Lighthouse Establishment and Service and this is the second of the three patterns. About 1900 a third pattern was instituted which included a turquoise lighthouse within a circle. Both patterns were then used up until 1938. Bottom is marked “James M. Shaw & Co. J  New York  P”  Pitcher is a good size and was recovered from the Charleston, SC area at the Ashley River, near the present Coast Guard base. Pitcher has one 1 ½” chip from the spout and some staining, but still displays well. Measurements 1 ½” high, 5” wide. It is now extremely difficult to find these early lighthouse dinner pieces, particularly in this pattern. Without the chip, this would be a $2,400 piece. (G+). $685.

7463-2. United States Lighthouse Service “U.S.L.H.S.” Serving Bowl c.1900. Original “U.S.L.H.S.” brown leafy pattern. This is a scarce original early china dinnerware piece from the United States Lighthouse Service manufactured of heavy white institutional type china, in the latter years of the Nineteenth Century for use in ships’ wardrooms and at the light stations. There were three patterns used over the years by the Lighthouse Establishment and Service and this is the second of the three patterns. About 1900 a third pattern was instituted which included a turquoise lighthouse within a circle. Both patterns were then used up until 1938. Bottom is marked “James M. Shaw & Co.  New York  P”  Bowl is a cute size with two end handles and was recovered from the Charleston, SC area at the Ashley River, near the present Coast Guard base. Bowl has one 3” chip from the back, small chip to base and some staining, but still displays well. Measurements 7 ¼” wide, 3 ½” high. It is now extremely difficult to find these early lighthouse dinner pieces, particularly in this pattern. Without the chip, this would be a $2,400 piece. (G+). $685.

U. S. Lighthouse Service Silver Dinner Service Pieces

25122a. U. S. Lighthouse Service Silver-Plate Teapot. Extremely rare piece, once part of wardroom silver service used on the lighthouse tender and some light vessels for the officer's and Lighthouse Inspector's mess. This lovely piece measures 6" high by 9" wide. Only one very slight dent on back side, handle slightly loose. Otherwise in superb condition, inside is clean. Engraved on the side of the piece is the insignia of the Lighthouse Service – a beautiful engraving of Minot’s Ledge Light within a 1 1/8” circle, surrounded by the words “United States Light House Service”. The piece is marked on the bottom “ Rogers Bros 1847 Silver Soldered 01857 Patent Handle”. This is a museum-quality piece - we have seen only two other Lighthouse Service silver pieces in 15 years. (F-). $4200 net.

25122b. U. S. Lighthouse Service Silver-Plate Cruet Tray. Extremely rare piece, once part of wardroom silver service used on the lighthouse tender and some light vessels for the officer's and Lighthouse Inspector's mess. This lovely piece measures about 12-14" wide. Engraved on the side of the piece is the insignia of the Lighthouse Service – a beautiful engraving of Minot’s Ledge Light within a 1 1/8” circle, surrounded by the words “United States Light House Service”. The piece is marked on the bottom “International Silver Co., Silver Soldered 0125”. Included are two pressed glass cruet bottles with glass stoppers. This is a museum-quality piece - we have seen only two other Lighthouse Service silver pieces in 15 years. (F-). $3900 net.

25122c. U. S. Lighthouse Service Silver-Plate Tray. Extremely rare piece, once part of wardroom silver service used on the lighthouse tender and some light vessels for the officer's and Lighthouse Inspector's mess. This lovely piece measures 15 ¾” x 11 ¼” oval. Engraved at the center of the piece is the insignia of the Lighthouse Service – a beautiful engraving of Minot’s Ledge Light within a 1 1/8” circle, surrounded by the words “United States Light House Service”. The piece is marked on the bottom “International Silver Co., Silver Soldered 0915 16 IN.”. This handsome tray is in good condition showing some use but no abuse. This is a museum-quality piece - we have seen only three other Lighthouse Service silver pieces in 15 years. (F-). $2895 net.

Set of three pieces $10,345.

U. S. Lighthouse Service Silver Turquoise Pattern Dinner Service Pieces

7463eee. United States Lighthouse Service Bread Plate. Scarce, original United States Lighthouse Service Bread Plate. Original “ United States Light House Service” blue pattern. This is a scarce original china dinnerware piece from the United States Lighthouse Service manufactured of heavy white institutional type china, in the early years of the Twentieth Century for use in ships’ wardrooms and at the light stations. There were three patterns used over the years by the Lighthouse Establishment and Service and this is the latter of the three patterns. About 1900 this pattern was instituted, and consisted of a turquoise lighthouse within a circle, with a turquoise perimeter stripe. Plate is back-marked “McNicol China. Clarksburg, W. VA. A.L. Cahn & Sons, Inc. 1932.”. There are no other markings visible. Plate is complete, with moderate wear, pattern bright but well worn in some areas, one minute chip to edge. Measurements 6¼” diameter. A scarce early dinnerware piece. (VG-). $365 net.

7463-6. United States Lighthouse Service Plate. Scarce, original United States Lighthouse Service Plate. Original “ United States Light House Service” blue pattern. This is a scarce original china dinnerware piece from the United States Lighthouse Service manufactured of heavy white institutional type china, in the early years of the Twentieth Century for use in ships’ wardrooms and at the light stations. There were three patterns used over the years by the Lighthouse Establishment and Service and this is the latter of the three patterns. About 1900 this pattern was instituted, and consisted of a turquoise lighthouse within a circle, with a turquoise perimeter stripe. Plate is back-marked “Haviland France. James M. Shaw & Co., New York . 1906. 3.”. There are no other markings visible. Plate is complete, with only light wear, pattern quite clear and bright, one of the nicer that I have yet found. Measurements 8 1/8” diameter. A scarce early dinnerware piece. Rare size. (VG+). $665 net.

7463yy. United States Lighthouse Service Dinner Plate. Scarce, original United States Lighthouse Service Dinner Plate. Original “ United States Light House Service” blue pattern. This is a scarce original china dinnerware piece from the United States Lighthouse Service manufactured of heavy white institutional type china, in the early years of the Twentieth Century for use in ships’ wardrooms and at the light stations. There were three patterns used over the years by the Lighthouse Establishment and Service and this is the latter of the three patterns. About 1900 this pattern was instituted, and consisted of a turquoise lighthouse within a circle, with a turquoise perimeter stripe. Plate is back-marked “Haviland France. James M. Shaw & Co., New York . 1912   5.”. There are no other markings visible. Plate is complete, clean and bright. Little if any . Measurements 8” diameter. A scarce early dinnerware piece. (G+). $725 net.

7463xx. United States Lighthouse Service Dinner Plate. Scarce, original United States Lighthouse Service Dinner Plate. Original “ United States Light House Service” blue pattern. This is a scarce original china dinnerware piece from the United States Lighthouse Service manufactured of heavy white institutional type china, in the early years of the Twentieth Century for use in ships’ wardrooms and at the light stations. There were three patterns used over the years by the Lighthouse Establishment and Service and this is the latter of the three patterns. About 1900 this pattern was instituted, and consisted of a turquoise lighthouse within a circle, with a turquoise perimeter stripe. Plate is back-marked “Haviland France. James M. Shaw & Co., New York . 1912   10.”. There are no other markings visible. Plate is complete, clean and bright. Little if any . Measurements 7 ½” diameter. A scarce early dinnerware piece. (G+).  $685 net.

7463zz. United States Lighthouse Service Saucer. Scarce, original United States Lighthouse Service Saucer for cup. Original “ United States Light House Service” blue pattern. This is a scarce original china dinnerware piece from the United States Lighthouse Service manufactured of heavy white institutional type china, in the early years of the Twentieth Century for use in ships’ wardrooms and at the light stations. There were three patterns used over the years by the Lighthouse Establishment and Service and this is the latter of the three patterns. About 1900 this pattern was instituted, and consisted of a turquoise lighthouse within a circle, with a turquoise perimeter stripe. Saucer is marked with stripe only, logo would have been on the cup. Piece is back-marked “Haviland France. James M. Shaw & Co., New York . 1916   12.”. There are no other markings visible. Saucer is complete, clean and bright. Little if any . Measurements 5 7/8” diameter. A scarce early dinnerware piece. (G+).  $450 net.

U. S. Coast Guard.

United States Coast Guard Silverplate Dinner Service.

These beautiful United States Coast Guard silverplate pieces were for use in the Officer’s Mess and were of expected high quality construction and added to a most elegant table. Pieces are of heavy weight silver plate by International Silver Co. and show a high degree of quality workmanship. Pieces are marked with a U.S. 13 star crest, some with “U.S.C.G.” above.

 23354a. [silver service] Original U. S. Coast Guard Creamer. 4 ½” high x 3 5/8” dia. (VG+)  $146.

23354c. [silver service] Original U. S. Coast Guard Creamer. 3 5/8” high x 3 3/8” dia. (VG+)  $116.

SR-460. [silver service] U. S. Coast Guard Silver Service Creamer. This beautiful United States Coast Guard silver plate piece was for use in the Officer’s Mess and is of expected high quality construction and added to a most elegant table. Piece is of heavy weight silver plate and shows a high degree of quality workmanship. Piece is marked with a U.S. 13 star crest. Creamer measures 4 ½” high x 3 ¾” dia. Marked “Made and Guaranteed by Meriden B. Company. Made in U.S. America. 25  12oz”. A beautiful piece. (VG+)  $148.

 20238i. [demi cup] United States Coast Guard “U.S.C.G.” Dinnerware. Scarce, original United States Coast Guard demi cup in the rare earliest c.1916 intertwined “U.S.C.G.” pattern. Extremely scarce pattern - I have had only one other in 15 years. Backmarked "Lamberton China ". (VG).   $325 net.

 This pattern is an intermediate pattern which includes the United States Coast Guard emblem in blue with crossed anchors surrounding Coast Guard shield, no stripes on rim.

8341rr,xx,ww. (18) [plate] United States Coast Guard. Scarce original early United States Coast Guard dinner plate manufactured in the early years of the Twentieth Century for use in ships’ wardrooms and at some ‘stag’ stations. Of heavy white institutional type china. Plate is of the earlier pattern with the United States Coast Guard emblem in blue with crossed anchors surrounding Coast Guard shield, no stripes on rim. Bottom labeled “Jackson China 1942 [or 1948], Nathan Straus or other”. Plate is large, with little if any wear, free of any cracks or major defects. Plate is round, and measures 10” in diameter. A beautiful example of this  early pattern. (VG+).  $59 each net.

 8341LLL. [roll plate] United States Coast Guard. Bottom labeled “Jackson China 1945”. Plate is quite clean, with little if any wear, free of any cracks or major defects. Plate is round, and measures 7 1/8” in diameter. A beautiful example of this  early pattern. (VG+).  $74 net.  

8341rrr. [platter] United States Coast Guard. This pattern is an intermediate early WWII pattern which includes the United States Coast Guard emblem in blue with crossed anchors surrounding Coast Guard shield, no stripes on rim. Large bright platter measures 9 ½” x 13 ¾”.  Bottom labeled “The Bailey Walker Vitrified China, Bedford, Ohio 1942”. With little if any wear, piece is exceptionally clean and bright. One small manufacturing defect to edges, still a beautiful piece. (VG).   $148 net.

8341sss. [platter] United States Coast Guard. This pattern is an intermediate early WWII pattern which includes the United States Coast Guard emblem in blue with crossed anchors surrounding Coast Guard shield, no stripes on rim. Large bright platter measures 9 ½” x 13 ¾”.  Bottom labeled “The Bailey Walker Vitrified China, Bedford, Ohio 1942”. With only very light if any wear, piece is exceptionally clean and bright. A beautiful piece. (VG+).  $158 net.

 8341yy. [Platter] United States Coast Guard. Bottom labeled “Nathan Straus & Sons , New York ”. Large platter measures 10” x 15”. With only very light wear, exceptionally clean and bright, free of any cracks or major defects, beautiful piece. (F-). $178 net.

8341aaa. [serving bowl] United States Coast Guard. Scarce original early United States Coast Guard meat serving bowl manufactured in the early years of the Twentieth Century for use in ships’ wardrooms and at some ‘stag’ stations. Made of heavy white institutional type china. Bowl is of the earlier pattern with the United States Coast Guard emblem in blue with crossed anchors surrounding Coast Guard shield, no stripes on rim. Bottom labeled "Jackson China Marine Works New York". Large bowl measures 10" x 8" oval. With only light wear, clean and bright, free of any cracks or major defects. (VG+). $118.

8341uuu. [gravy boat] United States Coast Guard. Bottom labeled “Nathan Straus & Sons, New York”. This pattern is an intermediate pattern which includes one turquoise stripe around the perimeter bordered by two thin brown stripes. Below the stripe are the United States Coast Guard emblem in turquoise with crossed anchors surrounding Coast Guard shield. Large bright gravy boat measures 8 ¾” long by 4 ¾” high. With little if any wear, piece is exceptionally clean and bright, free of any cracks or major defects, beautiful piece. As nice as they come. (F). $118 net.

8341vvv. [gravy boat] United States Coast Guard. Bottom labeled “Nathan Straus & Sons, New York”. This pattern is an intermediate early WWII pattern which includes the United States Coast Guard emblem in blue with crossed anchors surrounding Coast Guard shield, no stripes on rim. Large bright gravy boat measures 8 ¾” long by 4 ¾” high. With little if any wear, piece is exceptionally clean and bright, free of any cracks or major defects, beautiful piece. As nice as they come. (F).        $118 net.

8341-10. [gravy boat] United States Coast Guard. Bottom labeled “Jackson China 1942”. This pattern is an intermediate early WWII pattern which includes the United States Coast Guard emblem in blue with crossed anchors surrounding Coast Guard shield, no stripes on rim. Large bright gravy boat measures 8 ¾” long by 4 ¾” high. With little if any wear, piece is clean and bright, free of any cracks or major defects, beautiful piece. (VG+).  $108 net.

8341zz. [Bowl] United States Coast Guard. Scarce original early United States Coast Guard bowl or butter dish manufactured in the early years of the Twentieth Century for use in ships’ wardrooms and at some ‘stag’ stations. Made of heavy white institutional type china, bowl is of the earlier pattern with the United States Coast Guard emblem in blue with crossed anchors surrounding Coast Guard shield, no stripes on rim. Bottom labeled "Jackson China Marine Works New York". Attractive bowl measures 5 ¾" in diameter. With light wear, clean, free of any cracks or major defects, scarce piece. (VG). $78 net.

 This pattern is an intermediate pattern which includes one turquoise stripe around the perimeter bordered by two thin brown stripes. Below the stripe are the United States Coast Guard emblem in turquoise with crossed anchors surrounding Coast Guard shield.

8341-19. [demitasse cup] United States Coast Guard. Scarce original early pattern United States Coast Guard demitasse cup manufactured in the early years of the Twentieth Century for use in ships’ wardrooms and at some ‘stag’ stations. Made of heavy white institutional type china, cup is of the scarce earlier pattern which includes one turquoise stripe around the perimeter bordered by two thin brown stripes. Below the stripe are the United States Coast Guard emblem in turquoise with crossed anchors surrounding Coast Guard shield. Bottom labeled “Walker China, Vitrified Bedford, Ohio A-49”. Cup measures 2 ½” diameter 2 ¼” high. With only very light wear, this is a rare, beautiful piece. We have had very few pieces in this color pattern over the years, making this quite worthwhile. (VG+). $114.

8341-26. [demitasse cup] United States Coast Guard c.1920. Scarce original early pattern United States Coast Guard demitasse cup manufactured in the early years of the Twentieth Century for use in ships’ wardrooms and at some ‘stag’ stations. Made of heavy white institutional type china, cup is of the scarce earlier pattern which includes one turquoise stripe around the perimeter bordered by two thin brown stripes. Below the stripe are the United States Coast Guard emblem in turquoise with crossed anchors surrounding Coast Guard shield. Bottom labeled “Jackson Vitrified China”. Cup measures 2 ½” diameter 2 ¼” high. With little if any wear, this is a rare, beautiful piece. We have had very few pieces in this color pattern over the years, making this quite worthwhile. (F-). $124.

 8341nnn. [plate] United States Coast Guard.  Bottom labeled “Jackson China 1945”. Large plate measures 9” diameter. With little if any wear,  this is a  rare, beautiful piece. We have had very few pieces in this color pattern over the years, making this quite worthwhile.  (F-).  $88 net.

8341fff. [platter] United States Coast Guard.  Scarce original early pattern United States Coast Guard meat platter  manufactured in the early years of the Twentieth Century for use in ships’ wardrooms and at some ‘stag’ stations. Made of heavy white institutional type china. Platter is of the scarce earlier pattern which includes one turquoise stripe around the perimeter bordered by two thin brown stripes. Below the stripe are the United States Coast Guard emblem in turquoise with crossed anchors surrounding Coast Guard shield. Bottom labeled “Walker China, Bedford, Ohio”. Extremely large platter measures 12” x 17 ½” . With only very light wear, light to moderate crazing from age and some browning in areas, this is still a  rare, beautiful piece. We have had very few pieces in this color pattern over the years, making this quite worthwhile.  (VG-). $158 net.

 This pattern is a later pattern which includes one brown stripe around the perimeter bordered by two thin turquoise stripes. Within the stripe are the United States Coast Guard emblem with brown crossed anchors surrounding Coast Guard shield.

8341-33. [small bowl] United States Coast Guard.  Bottom labeled “Walker China Vitrified Bedford Ohio Alco Standard Corp. 1971”. This pattern is a later pattern which includes one brown stripe around the perimeter bordered by two thin turquoise stripes. Within the stripe are the United States Coast Guard emblem with brown crossed anchors surrounding Coast Guard shield. 6 7/8” diameter, 1 ¼” deep. Little if any wear. (VG+). $38.

8341-32. [bread plate] United States Coast Guard.  Bottom labeled “Walker China Vitrified Bedford Ohio. 1969”. This pattern is a later pattern which includes one brown stripe around the perimeter bordered by two thin turquoise stripes. Within the stripe are the United States Coast Guard emblem with brown crossed anchors surrounding Coast Guard shield. 7 ¼” diameter. Little if any wear. (VG+). $34.

8341-40. [bread plate] United States Coast Guard.  Bottom labeled “Syracuse China USA Since 1871 32-A”. This pattern is a later pattern which includes one brown stripe around the perimeter bordered by two thin turquoise stripes. Within the stripe are the United States Coast Guard emblem with brown crossed anchors surrounding Coast Guard shield. 7 ¼” diameter. Little if any wear. (F-). $34.

8341-39. [cup only] United States Coast Guard.  Bottom embossed “R”. This pattern is a later pattern which includes one brown stripe around the perimeter bordered by two thin turquoise stripes. Within the stripe are the United States Coast Guard emblem with brown crossed anchors surrounding Coast Guard shield. Measures 3 7/8” diameter, 2 ¼” high. Little if any wear. (VG-). $34.

8341-35. [bread plate] United States Coast Guard.  Bottom labeled “Walker China Vitrified Bedford Ohio. 1955”. This pattern is a later pattern which includes one brown stripe around the perimeter bordered by two thin turquoise stripes. Within the stripe are the United States Coast Guard emblem with brown crossed anchors surrounding Coast Guard shield. 7 ¼” diameter. Little if any wear. (VG+). $34.

8341-37. [small bread plate] United States Coast Guard.  Bottom labeled “Walker China Vitrified Bedford Ohio. 1962”. This pattern is a later pattern which includes one brown stripe around the perimeter bordered by two thin turquoise stripes. Within the stripe are the United States Coast Guard emblem with brown crossed anchors surrounding Coast Guard shield. 6 3/8” diameter. Little if any wear. (VG+). $34.

8341-41. [small bread plate] United States Coast Guard.  Bottom labeled “Mayer China Beaver Falls, PA. by Interpace USA 372”. This pattern is a later pattern which includes one brown stripe around the perimeter bordered by two thin turquoise stripes. Within the stripe are the United States Coast Guard emblem with brown crossed anchors surrounding Coast Guard shield. 6 3/8” diameter. Little if any wear. (F-). $34.

8341-36. [dinner plate] United States Coast Guard.  Bottom labeled “Mayer China Beaver Falls, PA. USA 363”. This pattern is a later pattern which includes one brown stripe around the perimeter bordered by two thin turquoise stripes. Within the stripe are the United States Coast Guard emblem with brown crossed anchors surrounding Coast Guard shield. 9” diameter. Little if any wear. (VG+). $38.

8341-38. [demitasse cup] United States Coast Guard.  Bottom labeled “The Bailey Walker Vitrified China Bedford, Ohio 1942”. This pattern is a later pattern which includes one brown stripe around the perimeter bordered by two thin turquoise stripes. Within the stripe are the United States Coast Guard emblem with brown crossed anchors surrounding Coast Guard shield. Measures 2 ½” diameter, 2 ¼” high. Little if any wear, light closed age line/crack. (VG-). $34.

7293b. na. The Eddystone Lighthouse. The Penny Magazine. July 28, 1832. 3p. Disbound. Early article describes Winstanley’s lighthouse on the Eddystone Rocks and Smeaton’s replacement in 1759. With illustrations and good detail. $8.

None available at this time. Please inquire. 

PA-86. (blanket) U.S. Coast Guard. World War II vintage gray Coast Guard blanket in good condition. (VG). $22.

U. S. Navy

RA-401a,b. (demitasse  cup/saucer) United States Department of the Navy. Scarce original early United States Department of the navy demitasse tea cup and saucer set. Of heavy white institutional type china. With little if any wear, free of any cracks or major defects. Pattern includes Department of the Navy seal in gilt, with thin blue and wide gilt stripe around rim. Saucer bottom labeled “Walker China. Vitrified. Bedford, Ohio. 6-41”. Cup bottom labeled “Shenango China, New Castle, Pa. USA”. Cup 2 3/8” diameter,  2 ¼”  high. Saucer 5” diameter. A beautiful set. Only light wear. (VG+). $28 set (2 available). 

2537. [demitasse  cup] United States Navy. Scarce original early United States Navy demitasse tea cup manufactured in the early years of the Twentieth Century for use in ships’ wardrooms and at some ‘stag’ stations. Of heavy white institutional type china, with little if any wear, free of any cracks or major defects. Pattern includes one cobalt blue fouled anchor on the body of the cup. A fine collectible,  2 ½” diameter,  2 ¼”  high. (VG). $16.

22289. [ US Navy dinnerware] This is a wonderful eggcup (or custard) from the United States Navy dinnerware made by Tepco China of California . Tepco produced china for the Navy and the Army Medical Department during World War II. This very collectible Naval mess egg cup features the top-mark or emblem signifying the Chief Petty Officer, consisting of a deep blue line border, beneath which us a fouled anchor and the letters “U.S.N.” . Cup is 3 1/4" tall, 3 1/8" in diameter, and is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, or crazing but does have some minor (but common) glazing flaws. This piece is marked with a green Tepco China U.S.A.” stamp. This great piece of Naval Mess porcelain is sure to compliment your collection of military items or war memorabilia. (VG+).  $38.

2242. [butter dish] Canadian Coast Guard. Scarce original early Canadian Coast Guard butter dish manufactured in the mid Twentieth Century for use in ships’ wardrooms and at some stations. Of heavy white institutional type china. With only light wear, free of any cracks or major defects. Dish is of a blue stripe pattern with crown and oak leaf. Bottom labeled "Duraline Super Vitrified Grindley Hotelware Co., Made in England. 11-78". Measurements 5" diameter. Very difficult to find Canadian Coast Guard items. (VG+). $28.

Steamship China

10407. (pitcher) Colonial Steamship Lines Milk or Water Pitcher c.1940 with the company flag logo and marked Warwick and dated 1940.  Manufactured by Warwick Co. One quart size 6.5"h x 6.75" dia. The company had three passenger ships - The Arrow, Comet & Meteor. From the internet: “There are many Phoenixville people who will recall the delightful overnight trips from new York City to Providence, Rhode Island, or Boston, Mass., on the old Colonial Line. For $4 plus $1.50 stateroom charge, one could leave New York at 5:30 p.m. and arrive in Boston at 8:25 the next morning.” Excellent condition, no marks or cracks. A large, striking piece. (F-) $225.

10213d. (roll plate) New England Steamship Company. c.1920’s – 1940’s. Lovely original New England Steamship Company dinner plate bears the company name in brown, early pattern without border decoration. Manufactured by Nathan Straus Vitrified China. Plate measures 7 ¼” in diameter, and is clean with light wear. (VG). $82.

10404. (dish) United States [Steamship] Lines. Vintage oval baker made for the United States Lines by Lamberton Sterling China. Oval baker (dish) measures approx 5 5/8" long x 4 3/8" wide. No chips, cracks or crazing. Excellent condition - shines like new. This pattern can be seen in Barbara Conroy's book Restaurant China Volume 1 on pg. 146. The United States Lines was established by the United States Shipping Board to run Government owned ships which were previously operated by the United States Mail Steamship Company. They operated cargo & passenger ships and offered transatlantic cruises up to circa 1969. (F-). $74.

10440. (cream/sugar) Munson Steamship Lines c.1930. Vintage creamer and sugar made for the Munson Steamship Lines. The Munson Steamship Line, frequently shortened to the Munson Line, was an American steamship company that operated in the Atlantic Ocean primarily between U.S. ports and ports in the Caribbean and South America. The line was founded in 1899 as a freight line, added passenger service in 1919, and went out of business in 1937. Logo is the ship flag with "M" in white lettering within a blue swallow-tailed flag, surrounded by the company name within chain and rope circles. The ship's flag logo is bright, sharp, and clear. Pieces backmarked “Mayer China Est 1881. Atlantic pattern. Furnished by Kniffin & Demarest”. Creamer 2 ½” high. Sugar 2” high x 3” wide. No chips, cracks or crazing. Excellent condition - shine like new. (F-). $144 pair.

10436. (dish) American Mail Line c.1922-1938. White round dish with blue/white/red flag logo on the rim. Measures 6 3/8” diameter. 7 1/8” x 5 1/8”. Marked on bottom "Buffalo China” “UEA”. H. F. Alexander's Admiral Line started a service between Seattle and the Far East under the name of the Admiral Oriental Mail Line. The company was taken over by the Dollar family in 1922 and re-named the American Mail Line. The Dollar and American Mail Lines were taken over by the government to prevent their bankruptcy in 1938 and the former was re-named American President Lines. American Mail regained its independence at this time. Following privatization after the war, the company was re-acquired, by American President Lines in 1954. The use of the American Mail Lines name and flag ended in 1973. American Mail Line vessels included the President McKinley, President Grant, President Jefferson, President Jackson, President Madison. The American Mail Line operated Trans-Pacific Steamship Routes between the ports of Seattle, Victoria, Yokohama, Kobe, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Manila, Honolulu and many others. Clean, only very light wear. (VG+). $46.

10411. (bowl) Old Dominion Steamship Company c.1920’s. Vintage oval bowl made for the Old Dominion Steamship Company by Buffalo China. Oval bowl measures approx 9" long x 8 ¾” wide. No chips, cracks or crazing, light wear. The Old Dominion Line (1867-1923) operated passenger and freight service between Norfolk, Virginia and New York City. It became a division of Eastern Steamship Company in 1923 but continued to operate as the Old Dominion Line until service was terminated in 1941 due to the war. Service was never resumed. (VG). $110.

10423. (cup) American Banner [Steamship] Line c.1959. Vintage cup made for the American Banner Line measures 3 ¼” in diameter by 2” high. The American Banner Line operated passenger service between New York and Amsterdam from 1958 to 1959 - only two years!  The line's only ship, the Atlantic, was purchased by the American Export Lines in 1959. Logo is the ship flag with "AB" in white lettering within a blue and white horizontal striped flag. The ship's flag logo is bright, sharp, and clear. No chips, cracks or crazing. Excellent condition - shines like new. (F-). $44.

10437. [silver service coffee or teapot] Grace Line (Grace Steamship Company) c.1939. Rare c.1939 pedestal base silver plate coffee or tea pot made for the Grace Steamship Lines. Any early silver plate from this steamship lines is considered very scarce and is seldom seen, especially, in this condition. This server would have been used aboard any of the line’s steamers for table and cabin service to serve hot coffee or tea water, and used with the steamship company china and glassware. It is the heavyweight type restaurant, hotel, and railroad type silverplate and made by the Reed & Barton Silver Co. Side is nicely engraved with an art deco “GRACE” within a circle. Bottom marked “Reed & Barton Silver Soldered, 23150 10oz Grace Line 24 (which matches “24” under lid – ie. lid is original). William Russell Grace founded the W.R. Grace Co. in New York in 1865 and by the early 1890's had entered the steamship business. Grace established regular steamship service in 1893 with a subsidiary called the New York & Pacific Steamship Co., operating under the British flag because ships built outside the United States were banned from US registry until 1905. US-flag service began in 1912 with the Atlantic and Pacific Steamship Company. The activities of both companies and the parent firm were consolidated into the Grace Steamship Company beginning in 1916. The firm originally specialized in traffic to the west coast of South America; then expanded into the Caribbean. The Grace Line's first American flag ship, delivered in 1913,  was the Santa Cruz, a ship designed to hold lumber as well as 48 passengers. In 1969 W.R. Grace Company  decided to go out of the steamship business and concentrate on chemical and other company ventures. Grace Line was sold to Prudential Line, a small line owned by Skouras of 20th Century Fox.Tea pot measures 5 ¼” tall by 7” wide (from the tip of the spout across to the opposite side of the handle). Piece is in very good condition with the exterior having the usual moderate usage scratches. The hinged lid works well and the handle is firmly attached to the body of the piece. The handle also has quite the ornate patented insulators that really add to its appearance. (VG). $165.

10412a. (large creamer or milk pitcher) American Export Lines Inc. c.1936-1964. White with one blue and three mustard color bands. Measures 5 ¼” diameter and 4 ½”  high. Marked on bottom "Mayer China, Beaver Falls, PA. U.S.A. Made Expressly For American Export Lines. Furnished By Maddock & Miller, Inc. N.Y.C. - 459". American Export Lines, New York, was the biggest US-flag shipping company between the US east coast and the Mediterranean from 1919 to 1977, offering both cargo ship services and passenger ship services, until declaring bankruptcy and was acquired by Farrell Lines, New York. The company went through various reorganisations and became the American Export Lines in 1936. In 1964, it merged with Isbrandtsen Co. to become the American Export-Isbrandtsen Lines. Clean, no stains of marks. (F-). $88.

10412b. (oval dish) American Export Lines Inc. c.1964. White with one blue and three mustard color bands. Measures 7 1/8” x 5 1/8”. Marked on bottom "Sterling China East Liverpool… Made Expressly For American Export Isbrandtsen Lines. USA E-2". American Export Lines, New York, was the biggest US-flag shipping company between the US east coast and the Mediterranean from 1919 to 1977, offering both cargo ship services and passenger ship services, until declaring bankruptcy and was acquired by Farrell Lines, New York. The company went through various reorganizations and became the “American Export Lines” in 1936. In 1964, it merged with Isbrandtsen Co. to become the American Export-Isbrandtsen Lines. Clean, no stains of marks. (F-). $34.

Procedure to order items:

1. I suggest that you call us or email to check on availability of any item that you would like other than recent books. As items go quite quickly, please call and leave a message to reserve items that you would like. I will return your call, hold the items and await your letter or credit card information. We will also weigh the items and advise postage. 

2. You may then call or email credit card information, or forward a check in the mail.

Most items are mailed US Priority Mail or UPS. Additional information on our "Ordering Page". 

Massachusetts residents must add 6.25% sales tax.

All text and illustrations on web site Ó James W. Claflin . 02/02/2012 All rights reserved. Use prohibited without written permission.

Please purchase American made products - 99.99% of the items that we sell are American made or are printed in America. For the few new items that we sell, we make every effort to purchase American made wherever possible. Buying American made puts American workers to work, creates additional jobs, and saves energy for transportation. 

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