Artistically engraved with leaf, vine and floral scrolling patterns. A cartouche at front bears the name of the owner "Tzvi ben Rav Yaakov". At base of cup is further engraved "This Cup Was Made from Holy Shmirot Coins".
The bottom engraving seems by a different engraver.
When the rabbinical leader of a community (the Rebbe) has a favorite follower or student, he would give him some of his silver coins or silver eating utensils. The recipient would take these coins or utensils to a silversmith to make them into a cup or if he was given a significant gift, a menorah. More often than not, the coins were scarce so the cups made were small. These “Shmirot” cups were held in great esteem since their silver content had been previously owned by a Tzaddik, a holy person. An added holiness would, therefore, be bestowed upon the user during the recitation of the Kiddush on the Sabbath and Holidays.
Great condition, Marked 12 at bottom
Height: 6 Cm.
Weight: 2.14 Oz.
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