Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
A collection of five vintage double-sided cardboard beer coasters from the historic Dutch brewery Grolsch. The set features two distinct designs: three older coasters printed on raw pulpy board with the classic Dutch slogan 'Vakmanschap is Meesterschap' (Craftsmanship is Mastery), and two slightly later export-market coasters showcasing their iconic swing-top bottle.
Story
Founded in 1615, Grolsch survived the devastation of the 2000 Enschede fireworks disaster. These coasters carry their famous 1960s slogan 'Vakmanschap is Meesterschap', a marketing campaign so iconic it ran for decades in the Netherlands.
Maker / Origin
Grolsch was established by Willem Neerfeldt in Groenlo, Netherlands. It is best known globally for its distinctive green 'beugel' (swing-top) bottle, introduced in 1897, which the brewery fought to keep even when cheaper crown caps became the industry standard.
Condition & Value
The coasters show moderate wear consistent with age and light use. There is visible water staining, edge wear, and natural yellowing of the cardboard, particularly on the three older Dutch-market examples. The graphics remain clear and legible. Vintage beer coasters (tegestology) are highly collectible but common.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.