United States Lines Vintage 1940's Demitasse (half-cup) Espresso Set

  

This belonged to my Great Aunt Clara who worked on the ocean liner United States Lines in the 1940's. The spoons are silver plated and manufactured by the International Silver Company to be used by the United States Lines solely. The white porcelain cups have the brand Porcelani Steatte Parana Made in Brazil. The saucers and silver plated cup holders were made by Wolff Company. This set was said to be served to first class passengers only.

This is a very rare and unique set. The United States Lines was withdrawn from service on November 14, 1969, due to financial losses and the decline of transatlantic ocean travel. This set had not been polished and the porcelain cups have a few small nicks and some of the gold trim is fading in a few spots.