Schmidt's Beer Coaster Appraisal
Category: Beverage Advertising Collectible
Description
This is a vintage circular beer coaster, likely made from compressed paper fibers or a similar absorbent material. The background presents a light cream or beige color. The primary decoration is a red, black, and white illustration of a stout man, depicted in a seated position, raising a stein of beer in a toast. He is dressed in a red vest, black jacket, and appears to have striped pants. A small black dog, resembling a dachshund, is seated beside him. Around the outer edge, text in red and black reads "DRINK SCHMIDT'S BEER" and "JA, DAS IST GUTE!" which translates from German to English as "Yes, that is good!". Above the man, the word "Prosit!" is prominently displayed in red, a common German toast. There is a prominent circular logo near the bottom of the illustration which reads "SCHMIDT'S BEER" with a red star in the center. The coaster shows some minor surface wear consistent with use, potentially slight discoloration or faint stains, although the image is generally clean and legible. The edges appear intact with no significant fraying or peeling. The piece is a typical example of beer advertising ephemera, likely dating from the mid to late 20th century based on the style of illustration and text. The quality is consistent with mass-produced promotional items, designed for utility in a bar or restaurant setting.
Appraisal Report
Based on my examination of the provided image of the Schmidt's Beer coaster, I can assess its condition and likely authenticity. The coaster appears to be a genuine vintage Schmidt's promotional item, consistent with the design and materials used in mid to late 20th-century beer advertising ephemera. Visually, the condition is good for its age, showing minor expected wear and potential slight discoloration or faint stains, typical of a used coaster. The image and text are legible, and the edges seem intact. Authenticity, based solely on this image, appears likely; however, a physical examination would allow for a more definitive assessment of paper type, printing method, and any signs of reproduction. Provenance documentation, detailing its origin and history, would also enhance authenticity verification. In terms of market conditions for vintage beer coasters, they generally fall into the lower end of the collectibles market unless they are particularly rare, feature iconic or unusual designs, or are part of a highly sought-after set or brewery's history. Schmidt's Beer is a known, but not typically considered a premium collectible, brewery. Comparable items, such as similar era beer coasters from regional breweries, typically sell in the range of a few dollars each. Demand for common beverage coasters is moderate among collectors of brewery advertising or general ephemera. Rarity is low for a mass-produced item like this. The factors impacting value are its condition (good), the recognizable brewery name (Schmidt's), and the appealing, though not unique, illustration. Without a physical inspection to confirm materials and printing, and lacking provenance, I must rely on the visual evidence from the image, which suggests a common vintage coaster. For full authentication and a more precise valuation, a physical inspection is crucial to assess the material composition, printing quality, and any subtle signs of age or wear that are not fully apparent in the image. Scientific testing, while generally not necessary for items of this value unless forgery is suspected, could technically confirm material composition and age. Provenance would ideally confirm its history and origin.
Appraisal Value
$2-5