Beer mug with lid 925 silver niello — Tankard hand engraving

A lid belongs on a 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. If you're looking for a stein that not only drinks but also protects, you'll find the heaviest piece in our beer mug line here.

At a Glance

• Material: 925 Sterling Silver, Niello hand-engraving
• Motif: Floral ornament with leaves and diamond bands
• Lid: Hinged lid with hinge on 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: available upon request — on the lid, handle, or foot ring

Material and Workmanship

This stein is the heaviest piece in our beer mug line — solid 925 sterling silver, which is noticeable by its lid, foot ring, and the necessary wall thickness for the Niello engraving. The floral Niello ornament wraps around the body like a band: leaves and tendrils between diamond bands, hand-engraved into the silver and fused in the flame. The surface alternates between polished silver and deep Niello black — a contrast that sharpens with each passing year. The lid itself is crafted separately and mounted on the handle via a hinge; slight variations between two pieces are not a defect, but rather the signature of Russian silversmithing, which we curate for our SilverVerse.

Use and Occasions

Historically, beer mugs had lids for a practical reason: during the plague in the 16th century, German cities mandated that drinking vessels be covered — 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 maintains the temperature on the festive table. For a 50th, 60th, or 70th birthday, this stein is a piece you won't put in the cupboard and forget. For Father's Day, it replaces the beer glass with a saying with real silver with a hinged lid. And after 30 or 40 years of service, for retirement or an anniversary, it's a gift that colleagues can contribute to together.

Engraving and SilverVerse Card

Upon request, initials, a date, or a family crest can be engraved on the lid, handle, or foot ring — we'll check the best position for your piece. For every personalization, we'll also design a free SilverVerse card in photo format 15 × 10 cm (landscape) — digitally designed, a unique item for this one gift.

Care

925 sterling silver is food-safe and requires hand washing with warm water, no dishwasher. The Niello engraving does not oxidize or fade — on the contrary, its contrasts deepen with each polish. If the silver tarnishes, a soft silver polishing cloth will help. The hinge of the lid requires no special care, but should be kept dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do old beer mugs have a lid?

Originally for hygienic reasons — in the 16th century, the lid became mandatory in many German cities to protect the beer from flies and dust. Today, it is tradition, temperature protection, and a status symbol all at once. On this stein, it works via a hinge on the handle: thumb pressure opens it, releasing closes it.

Can the mug actually be used for drinking beer?

Yes — 925 sterling silver is food-safe, does not impart any taste of its own, and cools noticeably better than glass. After use, hand washing with warm water is sufficient; no dishwasher.

Is engraving possible?

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

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