Bb Special Export Beer Flat Top Can

Southern Brewing Bb Special Export Can

The Can

The Bb Special Export Beer flat top is an authentic artifact of the Internal Revenue Tax Paid (IRTP) brewing era. Prominently featured along the lower panel is the mandatory statement "Tax Paid At Rate Prescribed By Internal Revenue Laws," alongside an alcohol declaration specifying contents not over 4% by weight. The label also displays the federal permit designation "Permit California U-1101." Set against a solid blue background, the face design highlights a tall, foaming pilsner glass flanked by stylized cursive "B" lettering, accompanied by top-rim notation declaring twelve fluid ounces.

The Brand

Bb Special Export was marketed as a refined, premium-style offering aimed at consumers seeking a quality lager experience. The prominent display of the tall stemware glass on the can face visually reinforced the brand's positioning as an upscale, export-quality pour suited for everyday enjoyment. During its production run through the 1940s and early 1950s, the brand served as a dependable regional competitor across California markets before being phased out as national distribution dynamics reshaped the industry.

The Brewery

Southern Brewing Company operated in Los Angeles, California, utilizing facilities located on South Rio Street. Operating in connection with the Grace Bros. brewing network and later Bohemian Distributing entities, the plant was part of a thriving network of regional breweries catering to the rapidly expanding Southern California population. Through the mid-20th century, the brewery produced a range of staple labels to meet strong regional demand before post-war consolidation and the rise of massive macro-breweries led to the facility's eventual closure.

Collecting Context

For collectors of vintage breweriana, West Coast flat tops from the IRTP period remain perennial favorites. This can appeals especially to those specializing in mid-century California brewing heritage, vintage U-permit labeled containers, and graphic designs featuring classic glassware artwork. Its clean typography and era-defining legal text make it a standout representative of mid-century Los Angeles brewing history.