Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
A classic German cobalt blue salt-glazed stoneware beer stein featuring a high-relief Brewers Guild crest flanked by lions. It is topped with a domed pewter lid stamped with the Gerz '95% Zinn' (pewter) mark and includes its original Anheuser-Busch import tag.
Story
Imported to America in the late 20th century, this stein carries the ancient German brewers' blessing: 'Hopfen u. Malz, Gott erhalt's'—'Hops and Malt, may God preserve them.' It connects modern collectors directly to medieval guild traditions.
Maker / Origin
Founded in 1857 by Simon Peter Gerz in the historic pottery region of Höhr-Grenzhausen, Gerz became one of Germany's most celebrated stein manufacturers. Known for their rich cobalt glazes and historical revivals, they supplied high-quality traditional stoneware to the global market for over a century.
Condition & Value
The stoneware body appears free of chips, hairline cracks, or glaze wear. The pewter lid is in excellent condition with no denting, and the hinge operates smoothly. The original leather cord and metal import tag are intact, which is highly desirable.
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.