What is the history of beer steins?

Steins originated in the 14th century. As a result of the bubonic plague and several invasions of flies in Europe, Germany established laws to require beverage containers to be covered for sanitary purposes.

Are old German beer steins worth anything?

German beer steins can sell for under $50 or over $5,000, but many sell in the $100 to $500 range. To determine whether your stein is a valuable antique or just a cool collectible, you need to look for clues about how old the stein is, where it was made, and how it was made.

Why do German beer steins have lids?

But lids did not start appearing on German steins until the Bubonic plague swept through Europe (in the 1300s), where insects appeared in their millions and attracted to the sweet smelling beer. The government decreed that all drinking establishments had to cover their stoneware with lids to prevent spread of disease.

What is the purpose of beer steins?

The stone body of the beer stein was designed to keep beverages cool, but this durable drinking vessel will also keep your beverage of preference hot. In other words, not only will it keep your beer frosty, it will also keep your hot cocoa or coffee toasty.

Why do beer steins have glass bottoms?

Metal tankards often come with a glass bottom. The legend is that the glass-bottomed tankard was developed as a way of refusing the King’s shilling, i.e., conscription into the British Army or Navy. The drinker could see the coin in the bottom of the glass and refuse the drink, thereby avoiding conscription.

Why is a beer stein called a stein?

One Bavarian Maß used to be exactly 1.069 litres. Over time, glasses became more standardised all over Germany (and Europe), so that eventually a Maß changed to be one litre. So, the word “stein” derives from the clay-based mug called “Steinkrug”, whilst a Maß used to be a measurement unit.

Do people actually drink out of beer steins?

Sipping a delicious brew from a beer stein feels a bit more indulgent and special than drinking from a regular glass. Establishments that offer the option of a beer stein are typically those that value both the presentation of their beer and offering their patrons an experience that enhances the flavor of the brew.

How do you tell if a German stein is authentic?

It’s German. If it’s made in Germany, odds are your stein is special. Investigate the bottom of the glass. Look for “Made in Germany” or “Gemacht in Deutschland.” Obviously if it has a “Made in” mark but the country isn’t Germany, you don’t have an authentic German beer stein.

Why do German cups have lids?

The lid. The lids on beer mugs serve as a sanitary measure, especially to keep insects out of the beer. They are usually made out of pewter, and are usually equipped with a lever that is in reach of the thumb, so that it is possible to grab the mug and open and close the lid with a single hand.

Why do old tankards have glass bottoms?

Are pewter tankards worth anything?

Pewter is a metal alloy of tin and lead, but it’s mostly composed of tin. Tin prices generally fluctuate between $7 and $11 per pound. When selling for scrap, you can expect to get roughly 50% of the current price – so scrap pewter, therefore, is generally worth around $3 to $5 per pound at a scrap yard.

Why is it called a beer stein?

The word “stein” is of German origin. The etymology of the word is either from “Stein Krug” (meaning stone jug/mug) or from “Steingut” (meaning stone goods). Steins are mugs used for drinking beer. They have a handle and a hinged lid; are decorated and sometimes hand-painted.

What is Oktoberfest beer stein?

The beer taps are fully functional, it plays a classic German song and looks fantastic displayed.A joyful Oompah band is prominently displayed in hand painted decoration set against a deep cobalt blue… This beer stein celebrates the German tradition of Oktoberfest and it’s festive music.

What is the history of Oktoberfest?

History of the Oktoberfest – The origins 1810 On 12 October 1810 Crown Prince Ludwig, who later became King Ludwig I, married the Princess Teresa of Sassonia-Hildburghausen. All the citizens of Munich were invited to attend the celebration held in the fields in front of the city gate to celebrate the happy royal event.

What is the difference between Oktoberfest Stein with and without a lid?

For the collector’s mug without a lid, the creation process ends here. The Oktoberfest stein with tin lid has yet another step ahead of it. The crowning glory is the lid on the Oktoberfest stein. The solid pewter lids are handmade and, like the whole jug, are worked with great attention to detail.

Why is beer served in glass jugs at Oktoberfest?

Since 1892 beer has been served in glass jugs (Maß). Since 1896, due to an initiative by the hosts in collaboration with the brewers, the first large halls were built to replace the old sheds. In 1910, the Oktoberfest celebrated its 100th anniversary with the consumption of about 120,000 litres of beer … a record for that time!