Over the years, the use of pewter mugs among beer drinkers has dwindled. This is because pewter is made of materials that are not exactly good for health reasons. Pewter is a mixture of metals and malleable alloy, majority of which is tin. Some of these metals are included in the formula to increase the hardness level. Lead is part of the formula, making it a health risk. Glass barware is more commonly found now.

Pewter beer mugs are still being sought after by collectors. Pewter collectors are passionate with their hobby and will go to great lengths to find not only pewter beer mugs but other antique pewter pieces. Depending on their tastes and resources they have the choice of collecting antique or modern pewter pieces. Pewter items are being used to decorate homes. Pewter beer steins or tankards are commonly displayed on bookshelves and display cabinets.