Vintage mustache cups are ceramic or metal drinking vessels from the Victorian era (mid-19th to early 20th century) featuring a unique internal ledge or "mustache guard" with a small opening, designed specifically to protect a gentleman's styled, waxed mustache from hot liquids like tea or coffee, preventing wax from melting and hairs from getting wet or soiled, with designs ranging from simple earthenware to ornate porcelain with hand-painted scenes.

Key Features & Description:

The Guard: A distinctive semi-circular shelf built into the rim, with a half-moon opening for sipping.

Purpose: To keep upper lip hair dry and clean from hot beverages, a common problem with styled mustaches.

Materials: Produced in various materials, including earthenware, porcelain, stoneware, tin, and even silver-plated versions.

Designs: Highly varied, from plain to elaborate; included landscapes, florals, hunting scenes, animal motifs, geometric patterns, and rare portrait cups.

Manufacturers: Made by famous potteries in Britain, Europe (Germany, France, Austria), and the U.S. (like R.S. Prussia).

Variants: Some came in matching sets with saucers, often engraved for husband and wife, or as large farmer's cups.

Era: Gained popularity after their invention by British potter Harvey Adams around the 1870s, remaining common until mustaches became less fashionable in the early 20th century.