How could I display a teacup and saucer collection?

How about on floating shelves?

You can purchase get tea cup and plate stands, with these the plate stands upright behind and the cup is sitting at the front. Makes it easy to stagger Tea cups display as well view the plates. Also to use space better you can also purchase or make your own risers. The tea cups set can then be placed on, around and under the risers. Creates an interesting display. In Canada we have Retail merchandise stores in which both of the above items can be purchase. The risers are plexi-glass so keeps the display lighter looking. You could also use wire shelf organizers or use some hard covered books (to match house colours cover your own books). Have fun and enjoy your display.

I really like the floating shelves look. And I also found this idea of a teacup ornament (just yesterday, while perusing the internet) that I thought was lovely!

Ikea has 2 beautiful shelves for cups and saucers, I' ll try to add a picture later :)

White: Stenstorp; natural wood: Gamleby.

Sorry, but I couldn't upload the photos :(