Superb antique 19th century French sterling silver coffee or tea cup and saucer set. Patterned with elegant scrolling foliage, seashells and roses. Hallmarked with the French Minerve 1st standard mark, which guaranteed the finest quality French sterling silver of .950/1000 purity in use from 1838 (95% pure silver and a higher grade than the standard .925 for sterling). Bearing silversmith's marks for Louis Coignet, active 1889-1893 at 14 rue Barbette, Paris. In good condition, with general wear and scratches commensurate with use and age. Cup measures 3 1/2" width with handle x 2 1/4" height, having a 2 3/4" diameter opening. Saucer is 5 1/2" diameter. Total silver weight is 178.6 grams.