Mark says Sterling 950 No. 1 Shop ~ What does it mean?

[lmanper]

Hello again - This is a 4 piece Coffee and Tea Pot, Sugar and Creamer. There is no hallmark, it just says Sterling 950 No. 1 Shop on each piece. Any clues as to what that means? Much thanks again for all of your help.
~Lisa

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[admin]

Hi,
I've not seen anything by this maker before, but the marks are typical of mid 20th C. Japanese work.

Regards, Tom

[lmanper]

Tom: Thanks so much for your response. Japanese seems to be the only thing I have been able to find out. Thanks for sharing your knowledge. ~Lisa