Protecting your Stein Collection:

Introduction:

Considering the fact that my Stein Collection is very small at the present time, with little more than 6 pieces, taking care of their condition is extremely important to me. There have been many Steins in my Grandmother’s collection, but due to circumstances beyond our control, like grandchildren dropping them on the kitchen floor, floods in the basement 40 years ago, and many moves across the County, I’m surprised any survived at all.

I am the lucky recipient of; 3 of the my Grandmother’s Steins (all brought from Germany by her Father and Grandfather), a precious Stein given to me the Christmas after the Berlin Wall Fell, and a Budweiser Stein given to me out of my Father-in-Law’s collection after his passing. I know that this new appreciation for the craftsmanship and artistry of these pieces will keep me researching their designs, desirability and collectibility, not to mention their sentimental value. I fully intend to build upon my collection, and I have an idea of the kind of steins I would like to obtain. Ebay has been an invaluable source for Stein information, the number of Steins available and the beautiful Steins that are up for auction. I will be making a purchase in the next week or so; I have an eye on a few of these treasures.

German Steins

Beer Mugs

Description:

Avoid putting hot beverages in your Steins – true, the intent of Steins was to contain liquid in the vessel, but the collectibility obviously declines with usage. Hot beverages can cause irreparable damage to your Stein; the heat on the older stoneware can cause cracking, crackling and possibly major breakage.

Do not use a dishwasher.

Use a mild soapy solution in lukewarm water. Clean with soft cloth and toothbrush. Immediately hand dry.

Display in a mild climate out of direct sunlight. Direct sun can heat your treasure and cause some mild cracking.

Avoid extreme cold, such as basement, or by drafty windows. The older the Stein, the more care is necessary in keeping them safe from variances in temperature.

Avoid wrapping steins in newspaper for prolonged periods, this can discolor the pewter.

These are a few, seemingly obvious tips to protecting your Stein collection. But a little knowledge goes a long way in keeping these treasures safe for years to come.