Mug, DAD, Papel Imports, Her Majesty Burrell 1897 Showman's Road Locomotive, Transfer Print, Made in Japan, Vintage, 1975

DAD in antique lettering across the top. A Victorian steam locomotive in full transfer print below. This is exactly the kind of mug that was made to mean something.

This 1975 Papel Imports ceramic mug features Her Majesty — a Showman's Road Locomotive designed and built in 1897 by Charles Burrell & Sons of Thetford, Norfolk, England. Burrell was one of the great names in British steam engineering, and the Showman's engine — built to power fairground rides and light up traveling shows with its onboard dynamo — was among his most spectacular creations. Having her portrait on a DAD mug is a genuinely excellent choice.

A good condition piece at an honest price — there is a dark mark inside that we were unable to remove, and the base shows the wear of regular use. No cracks, chips, or scratches. Made in Japan for Papel Imports and introduced in 1975 — the year the personalized mug as a gift category was essentially invented.

A perfect Father's Day gift for the dad who loves trains, history, steam engines, or simply a mug with a story behind it.

PAPEL Imports was founded by Phil Papel in 1955 and is widely credited as the first company to introduce personalized mugs as a gift item — starting with relatives (Dad, Sister, and so on) before expanding into name mugs, occasion mugs, and novelty designs that defined the American giftware industry for decades. In 1985 they celebrated their 30th anniversary as a recognized leader in the field. Still in business today, now run by Stanley Papel.

• Maker: Papel Imports, designed 1975
• Made in: Japan
• Vintage: 1975
• Dimensions: 3.5" tall | 3.5" diameter
• Material: Ceramic
• Condition: Good vintage condition. Dark mark inside — unable to remove. Base shows wear from regular use. No cracks, chips, or scratches. Please review all photos carefully — we cannot accept returns.