This short documentary video explores the unknown history of the Yorktown Cup, an exquisite sterling silver trophy made by the world-renowned jewelers Tiffany & Co. and awarded to the state of New Jersey for its role at the centennial commemoration of the Battle of Yorktown. The battle was the final, decisive engagement of the Revolutionary War and ensured victory for the American forces.
The magnificent detail of the hand-hammered cup includes etched and engraved scenes of the battle, profile portraits of famous Revolutionary War heroes, and an intricately-modeled Continental soldier in full uniform. The production of this magnificent piece of silver illustrates the process by which artists and artisans in the 19th and 20th centuries have used their work to “Remember the Revolution,” ensuring its long and lasting legacy as a source of creative inspiration and a defining moment in American history.
The Yorktown Cup is a featured object in the New Jersey State Museum permanent collection.