What are old beer steins worth?
Q: I have several early beer steins and am wondering if they have any value. — Jack, Pueblo West, Colo.
A: Beer steins, often called mugs, jugs and tankards, are generally drinking vessels for beer with both a handle and lid. The word “stein” is derived from the German word “steinzeugkrug,” which, roughly translated, means stoneware jug or container. Many different types of steins are collected, including etched, pewter, character, regimental, porcelain and commercial examples.
Prices vary, of course, on rarity, condition and desirability.
George F. Adams is an appraiser who specializes in vintage steins. Write to him c/o Steins Unlimited, Rt. 600, Box 7-B, Pamplin, VA 23958. For a second opinion, you might want to contact dealer John D. Stuart, c/o Thirsty Knight Antiques, 7 & 9 East Main St., P.O. Box 48, New Market, MD 21774.
Q: I am a Coca-Cola collector. I would like to find out if and when fairs are held for people who share this field of collecting. — Donald, Crossville, Tenn.
A: There are dozens of fairs for collectors each year in various parts of the country. To find out about fairs and values, you might want to contact an established club. Three of the more active groups are the Old Dominion Chapter of the Coca-Cola Collectors Club International, 1401 Addison Road, Hampton, VA 23663; the Florida West Coast Chapter of Coca-Cola Collectors, 11735 Kay Court, Seminole, FL 33778; and the Coca-Cola Collectors Club, 4780 Ashford-Dunworthy Road, Suite A, Atlanta, GA 30338.
Q: I have a small collection of books published during the mid-20th century about ghosts and hauntings. Is there a market for such materials? — Robert, Midland, Texas
A: Chris Woodyard is a serious collector of paranormal books and might be interested in the ones you have. His address is 1811 Stonewood Drive, Dayton, OH 45432.
Tip of the Week
Several readers have contacted me concerning tarnished silver. A simple, inexpensive solution is to put two tablespoons of baking soda into a bowl. Add warm water, one drop at a time, until a thin paste forms. Spread the paste on the silver with a soft, clean cloth. Let sit for a couple of minutes and then rinse, dry well and polish with a soft cloth.