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German Beer Stein

By jjohn22, 23 April, 2025
Description

This German beer stein was given to my husband by his German grandfather who immigrated to the US in 1920.

Category
Pottery
Medium
Pottery I think
Distinguishing marks
See photo of the bottom.
Condition
Excellent
Size and dimensions of this item
3 1/2 inches tall by 5 inches wide
Weight
1 lb.
For Sale?
No
Photos
Profile picture for user NaidaTheCollector

NaidaTheCollector

3 weeks ago

Small German Beer Stein Featuring Heidelberg Motifs

Item Description:

  • Type: Small German beer stein
  • Material: Glazed stoneware pottery
  • Dimensions: Approximately 3.5" tall x 5" wide (including handle)
  • Weight: 1 lb
  • Condition: Excellent — no chips or cracks visible, light natural crazing consistent with age, paint and glaze intact
  • Markings: Base impressed with “GERMANY” and additional embossed numbers and symbols (including what appears to be a triangle and a possible “A” or “R”)
  • Decoration: Relief decoration includes:
    • A man in traditional German attire
    • The Heidelberg coat of arms
    • The word "Schloss" (castle), referring to the famous Heidelberg Castle
    • Grapevine and grape cluster motifs
    • An old wine barrel seal labeled "Speitz", possibly referencing Speyer or Speitz wines

Historical Context:

This stein likely dates to the early 20th century, possibly pre-World War II, based on the "GERMANY" export mark (used predominantly between 1891 and 1945 for goods exported to English-speaking countries after the McKinley Tariff Act of 1890). The relief design, subject matter, and crackle glaze are also typical of this time period. Heidelberg-themed steins were popular souvenirs for tourists visiting the city and its famous castle.

Translation Notes:

  • "Heidelberg" — the city in southwestern Germany known for its romantic scenery and historic university
  • "Schloss" — castle
  • The iconography and coat of arms likely reference the city of Heidelberg and its long-standing cultural ties to wine and student traditions

Value Estimate:

  • Current Fair Market Value: $35–$60 USD
    • Value is influenced by its condition, age, size, and decorative appeal
    • Smaller steins typically carry lower values than full-size lidded counterparts
    • Appeal to collectors of German regional steins, Heidelberg memorabilia, or travel-related items

Professional Appraisal Recommendation:

This stein, while attractive and in excellent condition, is not likely to require a professional appraisal unless being insured as part of a larger collection. If additional steins from the same collection exist — especially lidded, dated, or marked by specific makers (e.g., Reinhold Merkelbach, Mettlach/Villeroy & Boch) — a full appraisal might be warranted for insurance or resale purposes.

No votes yet

jjohn22

3 weeks ago

Thank you so much.

Thank you so much.

No votes yet
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