Badger Beer Flat Top Can

Whitewater Badger Beer Flat Top

The Badger Beer flat top is among the most celebrated Midwestern cans, originally issued for the Whitewater Brewing Company of Whitewater, Wisconsin. Adorned with a prominent illustration of a badger clutching a shield, the design pays homage to Wisconsin's state identity and remains a cornerstone piece for regional breweriana enthusiasts.

Manufactured by the American Can Company, this steel container includes classic "Keglined" branding and illustrated opening instructions along its side panels, alongside the mandatory Internal Revenue Tax Paid (IRTP) statement of its era.

An intriguing aspect of the Badger Beer can is its production history and affiliation with the Manhattan Brewing Company of Chicago, Illinois. While the primary face displays the Whitewater Brewing Company name, contractual arrangements led to packaging and filling operations connected to the Chicago brewery. This relationship produced several known variations across different production runs. Collectors note differences in the fine print on the side panels, which alternate between stating the beer was packed expressly for Whitewater or directly referencing Manhattan Brewing under special contract. Certain variations also incorporate the Manhattan slogan "Best by Test" within the crest of the shield held by the badger, while others feature shifts in trademark placement and patent text formatting.

Due to its striking graphics, strong connection to Wisconsin brewing lore, and the fascinating cross-brewery history between Whitewater and Manhattan Brewing, this container is highly prized among early can collectors.