Absinthe bistro saucers served a dual purpose in the pre-ban absinthe era. Besides serving as a coaster, they also functioned to indicate the price of absinthe being served. The price printed onto the bottom or side of the saucer corresponded with a colour painted on the outside rim. This coloured rim was used to tell the waiter how much to charge the customer by reading the different saucer colours when stacked. For instance, if three green rimmed saucers were stacked, the waiter would know to charge the customer 3.75 French francs. When paying the bill, the money was generally left inside the coaster.

Sold individually. Colour accents are hand-painted so minor variances in finish are to be expected and embraced.

• Dimensions: 4.75" D x 0.75" H
• Material: porcelain with hand-painted lines and accents
• Care: hand wash