US Army Spanish American War Cup

The US Army Spanish American War Cup is an original military issue artifact from the period of the 1898 Spanish-American War. Typically constructed from tinned steel or aluminum, these cups formed part of the standard-issue mess kit used by American soldiers during the conflict. The design features a simple cylindrical body with a flat, folding handle, allowing for ease of packing and use in field conditions. Cups of this type were used for drinking water, coffee, or other liquids while encamped or on campaign. Markings may include U.S. arsenal stamps or inspectors’ marks, though these can vary depending on the manufacturing facility and date of production. Items like this cup offer insight into the daily life and material culture of the US military at the turn of the 20th century. This artifact is of interest to collectors and historians specializing in American military history and late Victorian-era field equipment.