Beer mug with lid 925 silver niello — Tankard hand engraving

A lid belongs on a beer mug like a seal on a letter — it closes, it protects, and it makes the piece complete. This 925 sterling silver beer mug features a hinged lid attached to the handle, which opens with a thumb press and closes automatically when set down. For those looking for a tankard that not only serves for drinking but also provides protection, this is the heaviest piece in our beer mug collection.

At a glance

• Material: 925 sterling silver, hand-engraved niello
• Motif: Floral ornament with leaves and diamond-pattern bands
• Lid: Hinged lid attached to the handle, thumb lever
• Dimensions: Ø 84.5 mm × W 105 mm × H 150 mm (with lid)
• Volume: 300 ml
• Weight: approx. 341 g
• Engraving: Possible upon review — on the lid, handle, or foot ring

Material and craftsmanship

This tankard is the heaviest piece in our beer mug line — solid 925 sterling silver, evident in the lid, the foot ring, and the necessary wall thickness for the niello engraving. The floral niello ornament runs as a band around the body: leaves and vines nestled between diamond-pattern bands, engraved by hand into the silver and fused in the flame. The surface alternates between polished silver and deep niello black — a contrast that becomes sharper with each passing year. The lid itself is crafted separately and mounted via a hinge on the handle; slight variations between two pieces are not a flaw, but the hallmark of Russian silversmithing, which we curate for our silver universe.

Use and occasions

Historically, beer mugs had lids for a practical reason: during the plague years of the 16th century, German cities mandated that drinking vessels be covered — to protect against flies, dust, and worse. What began as a hygiene regulation became a status symbol: the more elaborate the lid, the wealthier the owner. Today, the lid keeps wasps out in the beer garden and preserves the temperature at the festive table. For a 50th, 60th, or 70th birthday, this tankard is a piece that won't be tucked away in a cupboard and forgotten. For Father's Day, it replaces the novelty beer glass with genuine silver and a hinged lid. And after 30 or 40 years of service, for a retirement or anniversary, it is a gift that colleagues can present together.

Engraving and SilberVerse card

Upon review, initials, a date, or a family crest can be engraved on the lid, handle, or foot ring — we will determine the best position for your piece. For every personalization, we create a complimentary 15 × 10 cm landscape-format SilberVerse card — digitally designed, a one-of-a-kind item for this specific gift.

Care

925 sterling silver requires hand washing with warm water; do not put in the dishwasher. The niello engraving does not oxidize or fade — on the contrary, its contrast deepens with every polish. If the silver tarnishes, a soft silver polishing cloth will help. The lid's hinge requires no special care, but it should be kept dry.

Frequently asked questions

Why do old beer mugs have a lid?

Originally for hygiene reasons — in the 16th century, the lid became mandatory in many German cities to protect beer from flies and dust. Today, it is simultaneously a tradition, a temperature protector, and a status symbol. On this tankard, it functions via a hinge on the handle: a thumb press opens it, and releasing it closes it.

Can the mug actually be used for drinking beer?

Yes — 925 sterling silver does not impart any taste. After use, hand washing with warm water is sufficient; do not put in the dishwasher.

Is an engraving possible?

Yes, upon review — initials, a date, or a family crest can be engraved on the lid, handle, or foot ring. We will check the best position together.

You might also be interested in

Discover gift ideas

Table silver and silver tableware made of 925 silver