A coin silver cup (beaker) by John Kitts, Louisville, Kentucky.
This large, heavy cup exhibits beaded banding at top and base. At nearly 3
7/8 inches it is a bit taller than the average coin silver beaker.
John Kitts had an important silver and jewelry business in Louisville,
particularly after 1850. The maker's mark "J. KITTS" would indicate
that this cup was made between 1855 and 1859, after which Kitts became a
partner in John Kitts & Co.. The stylish period engraving shows that this
cup was a gift to a friend. Bottom of cup has some minor pitting, otherwise
this piece is in superb condition.
SOLD