Bay State Ale Flat Top Can

Bay State Ale Flat Top

The Bay State Ale flat top can was produced for the Commonwealth Brewing Corporation of Springfield, Massachusetts. As one of the brewery's primary offerings alongside its companion beer label, Bay State Ale represents a notable artifact from New England brewing history.

Manufacturing and Container Design

The can was manufactured by the National Can Company, utilizing their proprietary "Double-lined" can construction. This design was developed as a key competitor to the American Can Company's "Keglined" container during the early period of canned malt beverages. The can prominently features rich green and bright yellow or gold enameled colors, accompanied by bold, stylized typography that defines its clean aesthetic.

Label Characteristics and Variations

As with many containers of its period, the Bay State Ale can bears regulatory markings, including the standard "Internal Revenue Tax Paid" (IRTP) statement. Several variations of the label exist among preserved specimens. These differences typically involve state-specific permit endorsements—such as Massachusetts Permit M-11 or New York State licenses—as well as slight textual updates regarding patent status across different production batches.

Collectibility

Because Commonwealth Brewing operated for a limited duration before closing its doors, cans bearing their labels were produced in relatively modest quantities. As a consequence of this limited regional distribution, the Bay State Ale flat top remains a highly desirable piece for East Coast breweriana enthusiasts and can collectors.