Original Item: Only One Available. Perhaps no other collectible is so shrouded in myth, misinformation and mistaken identity as German regimental steins. These pieces have been steadily reproduced since the 1960s and most experts agree reproductions far outnumber authentic examples. Yet few buyers other than stein specialists know how to identify the fakes. We have examined this stein thoroughly, with reference to several websites such as RealorRepro and SteveonSteins, and this one has all of the correct aspects for being original.

The majority of authentic German regimental beer steins were produced between about 1890 and 1914. During this time, military service was compulsory in Germany. Most men would take basic training between 17 and 20 and then enter the reserves until age 40. A group of men would enter a unit together, stay in the same unit for training and be discharged as a unit. This sense of togetherness fostered the custom of buying souvenirs with the unit name, insignias and decorations as a keepsake of military service. Many souvenir items were available such as pipes, clocks, flasks and especially steins. Rosters of names from your unit, or regiment, could be added to the steins and these became known to collectors as "regimental steins."

Authentic ca. 1890-1914 steins were available in pottery, porcelain, glass and metal. Regardless of what the stein was made of, almost all had pewter lids. The most common sizes are half-liter and one-liter. The beginning of WW I effectively ended the production of regimental steins as labor and materials were diverted to the war.

This is a great Pre-WWI stein for a German athletic association, with the stein depicting men lifting weights, exercising, and wrestling. The lid has an embossed motif with the motto GUT HEIL!, German for “Good Health”, and a common greeting used by gymnasts during this period.

The stein is marked 1/2L for half of a liter, the standard capacity for these. The hinged lid is in great shape without damage. The bottom of the stein has a lot of markings, rare to see:

METTLACH
VB

GEGEN NACHBILDUNG
GESCHUTZT
28    2278    97

97 denotes the year of manufacture, 1897. The stein measures 9” tall with a 4” base diameter. 

An outstanding stein, ready for display.