Original German WWII “Kriegs-Weihnacht 1940” Commemorative Beer Stein (0.5L)
Offered is an original German WWII commemorative beer stein marked “Kriegs-Weihnacht 1940” (War Christmas 1940), representing the wartime holiday experienced by German soldiers during the early phase of the conflict.
This .5 liter glazed ceramic stein features a detailed period-style scene depicting a German MG (Maschinengewehr) team advancing through an active battlefield. The foremost soldier is armed with an MG34 machine gun, while the second soldier, moving just behind, carries a spare ammunition box for the MG34 along with an M24 stick grenade, clearly identifying the pair as a coordinated machine gun team. The scene captures the intensity of combat, with explosions erupting behind them and aircraft overhead, while a concrete pillbox structure, barred wire and barren trees complete the war-torn landscape.
The upper portion of the stein is boldly inscribed “KRIEGS-WEIHNACHT 1940”, arching above the artwork. The decoration is executed in classic wartime tones, combining muted sky hues with vivid battlefield elements, typical of period commemorative ceramics intended for morale or remembrance.
The body retains a smooth off-white glaze with light speckling consistent with wartime production. A subtle blue band accents the base. The side of the stein is impressed “0.5L”, denoting capacity. The underside shows a mold number and a small impressed maker-style mark, though no clearly identifiable manufacturer is present.
Condition:
Overall in very good to excellent condition. The stein shows light age-related wear, including minor speckling and some interior staining from use. The painted scene remains crisp and well-preserved with no notable loss. No cracks or repairs observed. The handle is solid and intact.
A highly collectible and visually striking WWII German commemorative stein, enhanced by the accurate depiction of a frontline MG34 team, an iconic representation of German infantry tactics. An excellent display piece with strong historical and thematic appeal.
