Overview
Identified by the iconic cobalt blue 'HB' crown logo of Hofbräuhaus München and the standard '1L' capacity mark. It is a traditional salt-glazed stoneware 'Keferloher' style mug.
Identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
Identified by the iconic cobalt blue 'HB' crown logo of Hofbräuhaus München and the standard '1L' capacity mark. It is a traditional salt-glazed stoneware 'Keferloher' style mug.
Story
The 'Keferloher' is the traditional, smooth-sided, slightly tapered stoneware beer mug of Bavaria, favored for its insulating properties that keep beer cool. Hofbräuhaus München, founded in 1589, is arguably the most famous beer hall in the world, and its cobalt blue 'HB' crown logo is globally recognized. These salt-glazed steins have been produced for over a century with very little variation in form.
Maker / Origin
Unattributed
Condition & Value
Based on the provided description, the stein exhibits the expected rustic orange-peel texture characteristic of salt-glazed stoneware. The applied handle and cobalt decoration appear intact. Assuming no hidden hairlines, rim chips, or structural repairs, it is in standard vintage condition suitable for display or use.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
The secondary market for traditional Bavarian brewery stoneware is saturated but steady, driven by casual collectors, Oktoberfest enthusiasts, and home bar decorators. Standard 1-liter Hofbräuhaus steins are ubiquitous and trade frequently as accessible, decorative utility items. Prices remain relatively flat due to high supply and ongoing contemporary production.
▲ Iconic 'HB' Hofbräuhaus cobalt blue crown logo ensures immediate brand recognition
▲ Traditional 1-liter (Maß) capacity is the most desirable size for authentic Oktoberfest barware
▲ Durable salt-glazed stoneware construction appeals to both collectors and practical users
▼ High market saturation caps the upper value limit; these are common items
▼ Unverified base marks — lack of a specific, highly collectible maker's mark keeps this in the general utility tier
▼ Hidden rim chips or handle hairlines would reduce value to a nominal decorator piece
Best Venue
List on general online marketplaces like eBay or Etsy, targeting the $30-$40 range for a steady sale. Ensure photos clearly show the rim, handle joints, and base to reassure buyers of its condition. Bundle with other German barware if looking to move inventory quickly.
Upside Potential
If the base reveals a rare, early 20th-century maker's mark from a highly regarded Westerwald pottery, the value could push slightly above the $50 mark to a specialized stein collector. Otherwise, the high-end is firmly capped by the abundance of similar inventory.