Original U.S. WWII 8th Air Force Silver Presentation Cup with British Hallmarks for 1943 in Original Embossed Silk & Velvet Lined Case

Original Item. Only One Available. This is a tremendous piece of 8th Air Force history, a gorgeous silver presentation cup commemorating the 8th Air Force’s service in England from 1942-1945. The bottom of the cup bear silver hallmarks which indicate the year of production as 1943. The cup comes in its original silk & velvet lined presentation case.

The cup measures 4” tall with a 2½” base diameter. It weighs approximately 4.8 ounces, and has a small American Eagle seal over the 8th Air Force insignia, under which is engraved:

EIGHTH AIR FORCE
ENGLAND 1942-1945

The bottom of the cup is engraved 31 next to British silver hallmarks including a Double H, a capital H indicating production in 1943, which makes sense as this would have been in reserve when it was used and engraved in 1945.

The original case measures 6½ x 4½ x 3½”. The top of the lid is embossed with the 8th Air Force insignia, while the bottom of the case is embossed MADE IN ENGLAND. The two securing straps which keep the case closed have broken, so the case opens without resistance. The interior is lined with silk and green velvet, with a portion cut in the velvet to fit the cup perfectly. This is a very well-designed set that was likely meant as a gift to a high ranking officer in the 8th Air Force.

We’ve never seen something quite as prestigious as this for presentation during WWII, a tremendous piece ready to become the centerpiece of any 8th Air Force collection. Comes ready for further research and display.