Berlin Coat of Arms Souvenir Beaker in Silver Plate or Pewter
Hollowware - Beaker / Cup · Unknown European souvenir manufacturer, likely German workshop specializing in tourist and commemorative metalware.
Pattern: Berlin Municipal Heraldry Tourist Series, mid to late 20th century production.
Type
Hollowware - Beaker / Cup
Maker
Unknown European souvenir manufacturer, likely German workshop specializing in tourist and commemorative metalware.
Material
Likely silver-plated base metal or traditional German Zinn (pewter), finished with an oxidized patina to highlight the relief detailing.
Dimensions
Standard small drinking vessel / shot beaker size, approximately 3.5 to 4 inches in height and 2.5 inches in diameter at the rim, weighing roughly 120-180 grams.
Description
An engaging commemorative beaker featuring the distinct heraldic arms of Berlin. The piece is smartly designed with smooth, satin-finished upper and lower borders that frame a heavily textured, oxidized central band. This central frieze depicts a brickwork pattern serving as the backdrop for an ornate shield displaying the Berlin bear beneath a tournament helmet and crest, with the banner clearly reading 'BERLIN'. It serves as a classic piece of travel memorabilia combining traditional European heraldry with mid-century souvenir craftsmanship.
Key Features
Prominent embossed Berlin coat of arms with the iconic bear and banner, contrasting textures of smooth satin rims and oxidized brick-pattern relief, compact cylindrical form.
Material & Composition
Likely silver-plated base metal or traditional German Zinn (pewter), finished with an oxidized patina to highlight the relief detailing.
Finish & Decoration
Satin brushed finish on the smooth upper and lower rims, contrasted with an oxidized, dark-relief textured background featuring a brick wall pattern. The central cartouche displays the Berlin coat of arms showing the rampant bear, topped with a knight helmet, crest, and scroll banner reading 'BERLIN'.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in the provided image, but typically European souvenir pieces of this type carry manufacturer maker's marks, alloy stamps (such as '90' for silver plate or 'Zinn' for pewter) on the base.
Construction Details
Likely formed via sheet metal spinning for the tubular body, with the central decorative heraldic band applied or die-struck and soldered around the circumference. The rim features rolled or smoothed finishing edges.
Functional Features
Cylindrical beaker designed as a desktop souvenir, commemorative display item, or small shot cup / dram cup.
Handle & Grip Details
Handleless straight-walled cylindrical body with raised smooth rims providing natural gripping zones above and below the textured central band.
Craftsmanship Details
Competent assembly combining spun metal cylindrical bodies with applied relief decorative friezes. The contrast between bright polished highlights and darkened recesses effectively accentuates the heraldic details.
Authentication Indicators
Typical construction methods and heraldic motifs of mid-century German tourist metalware. The detailing is sharp and clean, characteristic of die-struck or cast applied friezes.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in Germany, specifically tailored for the Berlin tourism market utilizing traditional metal-working and stamping techniques.
Era & Period
Mid to late 20th Century, common during the post-WWII tourism boom in West Berlin and continuing through the late Cold War era.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1980, based on the style of heraldic tourist pieces commonly brought back from European travels during that period.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war European tourism industry and the tradition of acquiring local heraldic and commemorative objects as travel tokens. It captures civic pride and municipal identity in a portable format.
Condition Notes
Very good vintage condition overall. The satin and oxidized finishes show minor surface wear consistent with age and display handling. No major dents, cracks, or structural failures are visible.
Value Estimate
Modest collector and secondary market value, typically ranging from $15 to $45 USD depending on exact metal composition, maker, and local market demand.
Care & Maintenance
If silver-plated, clean gently with a soft microfibre cloth and mild silver polish avoiding harsh abrasion on the oxidized background. If pewter, wash with warm soapy water and dry immediately. Store in a dry environment.
Similar Pieces
European silver-plated or pewter shot cups, thimbles, and small beakers featuring coats of arms from various cities such as Munich, Vienna, and Paris.
Interesting Facts
The bear has been a symbol of Berlin for centuries, appearing on seals and coats of arms since the late 12th and early 13th centuries. Beakers of this style were extremely popular tourist purchases for international visitors touring historic European capitals.