Why do steins have dimples?
According to the designers, the dimples were meant to soften the intimidatingly bitter beer by giving it a more inviting taste but maintaining the masculine look since beer is more a guy drink in those times.
What can I do with beer steins?
It keeps your drink cool (or hot). 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.
Does a stein have to have a lid?
Beer steins with lids originated in 14th century Germany. Europe had been ravaged by the bubonic plague, killing millions of people. Shortly after, the entire region was besieged by several invasions of flies. In response to these events, Germany passed laws requiring that all food and beverage containers be covered.
What are the different types of German beer steins for sale?
Steins may have unusual handles, subjects, materials, signatures, or hinge mounts, increasing its perceived collector’s value, while other qualities a collector may seek in vintage German beer steins for sale include enameled, blown, molded, relief, incised, or etched manufacturing and features.
How are German lidded Steins classified and valued?
One of the main ways preowned collectible German lidded steins are classified and valued is by manufacturer. Of these, of which there are many, one of the manufacturers whose steins are among those most commonly sought by collectors is Mettlach.
How do you identify antique and vintage beer steins?
One other key way that collectors distinguish antique and vintage beer steins is by their lid. There are several common types of beer stein lids that can easily be found on eBay, those being:
What determines the value of a German beer stein?
Patent marks and the distributor’s and manufacturer’s reputation also factor into a German beer stein’s value.