Herforder Pils Beer Coaster Appraisal
Category: Beverage Accessory
Description
The item is a circular paper beer coaster. It is approximately 3.5 to 4 inches in diameter and appears to be made from a pressed pulp material characteristic of vintage beer coasters. The color is a light tan or beige with red printing. The design is a vintage style featuring several elements. At the top is a small crest or coat of arms inside a shield shape, colored red and white. Below the crest, in a prominent position, is the word "Herforder" in a flowing script font, colored red. To the right of "Herforder" and slightly below, is the word "Pils" in the same red color and script font. Below these words, in smaller red block letters, are the words "...ein Genuss!" which translates from German to "...a treat!" or "...a pleasure!". There is a thin red circular line around the perimeter of the coaster. The overall design is simple but classic for this type of item. The surface shows some minor signs of wear consistent with use as a coaster, such as perhaps slight discoloration or edge wear, though the printing appears clear. There are no obvious tears, major stains, or repairs visible in the image. The style of the typeface and design suggests a potential age range, likely mid to late 20th century, but without specific markings or context, this is an estimate. It is a mass-produced item, typical of promotional materials for breweries.
Appraisal Report
Based on my visual examination of the provided imagery, I have assessed this Herforder Pils beer coaster. The item appears to be a genuine vintage promotional coaster from Herforder Brewery, consistent with the styles and materials used in the mid to late 20th century. The condition shows minor wear consistent with typical use, but the printing is clear and legible, and there are no visible tears or major stains. Authenticity is likely given the mass-produced nature of such items, but definitively confirming it without in-person examination is challenging. I would need to physically inspect the material feel, print quality details under magnification, and potentially compare the weight and thickness to known authentic examples from that era. Provenance documentation, although unlikely for a low-value item like this, would also aid verification. Market conditions for single, common vintage beer coasters like this are generally low. They are collectible but typically only fetch significant prices as part of a larger, themed collection or if they are rare variations or from very early periods. This particular design is relatively common. Demand is primarily from collectors of brewery advertising or beer memorabilia enthusiasts. Rarity is low for this specific item. Factors impacting value are primarily its condition (which is good for its age) and its potential inclusion in a collection. Without a physical inspection, I cannot definitively rule out the possibility of it being a modern reproduction, though the wear shown leans towards vintage authenticity.
Appraisal Value
$1 - 5