US Navy Mess Ware Mug Shenango China 1940-1950

U.S. Navy mess ware, specifically a Navy-issue mug or cup used by enlisted sailors. 

The mark "Shenango China Newcastle PA." refers to the Shenango China Company, a major American pottery and china manufacturer based in New Castle, Pennsylvania.

3.25" H x 3.25" Diameter

About Shenango China:

• Founded: 1901 in New Castle, PA.

• Products: High-quality restaurant ware, hotel china, and institutional dinnerware.

• They became famous for producing durable vitrified china—perfect for railroads, the U.S. military, and government institutions.

• During World War II, Shenango produced a lot of china for the U.S. Navy and other branches of the military, often decorated with insignias (anchors, "USN," or service crests).

Key Identifiers:

• The blue anchor insignia is the standard U.S. Navy mark for enlisted dining ware.

• The blue stripe around the rim matches the design style seen on other Navy mess deck cups and dishes.

• The heavy porcelain construction made it durable and resistant to breaking in shipboard conditions.

Purpose:

• This cup/mug was used for coffee, water, or other beverages in the enlisted mess.

• Unlike officer wardroom china, which often had gold trim and finer designs, enlisted messware was plain, functional, and rugged.