Rare mismatched set of six money collectors or bistro bowls made of Limoges porcelain, all stamped and dating from the first half of the 20th century.

Each piece features a colored rim and a number in the center or on the edge followed by the symbol "â‚£" (Francs), indicating the price of the consumption (2f, 3f, 6f, 7f, 8f).

In the early 20th century, these small porcelain bowls, known as price saucers or money collectors, were ubiquitous on the counters and tables of French cafés and bistros. Their use was double and clever: the number inscribed in Francs corresponded exactly to the price of the served consumption (a coffee, a half or a glass of wine). When the café waiter served the customer, he stacked the saucers as the consumptions were served. At the end, it was enough to add the amounts visible on the saucers to get the total. They also served as a receptacle for placing coins and the server's tip.

This set attests to the high quality of bistro tableware from the early last century:

- AP & F: Stamp of the Albert Pillivuyt & Fils factory in Foëcy, dating from the period 1913 to 1936. Two of these bowls also bear the mark of the "Centre d'Achats pour Hôtels, 8 rue Masseran, Paris VIIe".

- Limoges Unique France: Famous grouping of Limoges porcelain manufacturers created in the late 1920s (one of them also bears the stamp of the white maker PL France and the decorator Hall Céramique Limoges).

Excellent overall condition. No chips, no cracks, no restorations. The porcelain is very shiny, and the colors and numbers are very well preserved (see photos).

Dimensions: 12 x 12 x 2 cm.

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