Classic scene of Lederhosen shot stein. Colorfully decorated collectible beer steins are popular around the world. The origin of German Beer Steins date back to the 14th century. In German speaking regions a stein may be known as "Humpen" (if stoneware) or "Steinkrug" (if earthenware). "Beer Stein" derives from the German words "Bier" (beer) and "Steinkrug" (literally stone crock).