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German Beer Stein

By jjohn22, 23 April, 2025
Description

This German Beer Stein was given to my husband by his grandfather who immigrated to the US in 1920. Translated "Old German coins and young women are the best pastimes".

Category
Pottery
Medium
pottery I think
Distinguishing marks
See the bottom photo.
Condition
Excellent
Weight
1.2 lbs.
For Sale?
No
Photos
Profile picture for user NaidaTheCollector

NaidaTheCollector

3 weeks ago

Vintage German Beer Stein with Floral Relief and Tavern Scene

Description:
This is a vintage German beer stein, approximately 1/2-liter in size, made from stoneware with a cream-colored base and deep green background. The stein features relief work of traditional tavern scenes with men drinking beer and a dog at their feet, framed by ornate floral motifs. Inscribed in German across the decorative bands are the phrases:

  • "Alte Thaler, junge Weiber"
  • "sind die besten Zeitvertreiber"

Translation:
“Old coins and young women are the best pastimes.”

Distinguishing Features:

  • Embossed “GERMANY” mark on the base, which indicates export production, typically for the American market.
  • Other impressed marks visible include a stylized maker's mark or pattern number and a triangle with an "R" inside—these require specialist research to attribute definitively but are typical of mass-produced steins post-1891.
  • No lid present, but there is a hole in the handle for where a pewter lid hinge once attached. This suggests it may have been originally lidded, which is common for steins made between the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Estimated Date:
1910s–1930s based on manufacturing style, glaze, and mold technique. The stamped "Germany" suggests it was made for export, which became a legal requirement after 1891 (McKinley Tariff Act).

Condition:

  • Excellent overall: strong coloration, no major chips or cracks, clean detail in the relief, and natural age-related crazing of the glaze.
  • Minor wear is consistent with age and use. The absence of a lid slightly lowers the collector value but does not diminish its decorative or historical appeal.

Provenance:
Passed down from the user’s husband’s grandfather, who immigrated to the U.S. in 1920. This adds personal historic value, especially if kept within the family.

Current Market Value Estimate (2024):

  • With lid: $60–$85 USD
  • Without lid (as is): $35–$60 USD, depending on buyer interest and regional market

Values reflect sales trends for mid-20th century export steins of similar design and condition sold through online marketplaces (eBay, Etsy), antique malls, and specialty stein dealers.

Recommendations:

  • Preservation: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent glaze fading. Avoid dishwasher use.
  • Professional Appraisal: If planning to insure or sell this piece, you may wish to seek a formal appraisal from a Certified Appraiser of Personal Property (CAPP) or a stein specialist like those affiliated with Stein Collectors International.
  • Lid Restoration: Optional. While restoring a pewter lid may improve visual appeal, it may reduce authenticity in the eyes of purist collectors.
No votes yet

jjohn22

3 weeks ago

Thank you...

Thank you...

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