Rare 1900s 800 Silver "Bierzipfel" Mercedes-Benz Compass Beer Stein & Watch Fob
This stunning fob was made around the early 1900s in Germany and features a black fabric ribbon with ornate 800 finials and a triangular pendant with a compass on one side and a red enamel Mercedes-Benz logo on the other side.
"Bierzipfel" or "Beer Tips" were common in Central Europe between the end of the 19th and beginning of 20th century. They usually belonged to the members of student fraternities which to this day adhere to very strict codes and rituals, comparable to those of masonic lodges. The color combinations of the fabric identified the alma mater and the quality and materials of the ornaments the family status of the student. In those times, most students came from wealthy and aristocratic families. These fobs had several purposes: They were worn on a belt clasp or as a watch fob to identify the bearer as a member of a fraternity. When in the pub, students would mark their steins or glasses with the fobs in order not to confuse them with the drinking vessels of other students. Remember, that infectious diseases were not curable at the time and nobody wanted their life cut short by drinking from the wrong glass! Also, the fobs were exchanged between friends and "adversaries". Members of different fraternities would regularly engage in fencing duels with real weapons and scars from these duels would be worn with pride. After a duel, it was common to exchange the fobs as a keepsake and sign of respect for the adversary.
This specific piece was likely made for employees of Mercedes-Benz imitating these popular pieces.
The piece is in very good antique condition with minor patina according to age which can easily be polished away if desired.
This great fob measures approx. 5 1/2" long from end to end x 1" wide and weighs ca. 11.4 grams. Stamped "800" for a common European silver standard of 80% silver.
A very rare and unusual piece with a lot of history!
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