Occasionally there would be these festivals where these ‘Troupes’ would come in for perhaps a few days. They would put on music shows and sell beer. I supposed that it was similar to what Oktoberfest was like. They would sell beer in great glass steins but you had to give a security deposit for the stein. That was typically about 50 cents or a half Mark. You got the stein and a big sort of coin as proof of your deposit. A really nice looking coin not some Cracker Jax trinket.
I was astonished at this ‘arrangement.’ The coin was clearly a collectible. I immediately thought to keep the stein and the coin. They were both so cool. I never did however as it was an ‘honor system’ thing and I respected that. I should have taken pictures. Instead I just listened and watch those darling (liebeling) frauleins dance and deliver refills every time that my glass was drained. After I could walk to my apartment just a few minutes away. Good Times.
Seeing all of these threads regarding the imbecilic decisions of Budweiser is a bit of fun for me. These people are killing the goose that lays golden eggs. I never thought that could happen.
I’m a veteran of Oktoberfests here and in Germany. I would have asked them if I can buy the stein. I’ve done this with pint glasses as I collect them. Usually they will work out a deal.
-SB