Beer Cone Top Can (Propeller)

Wartime Schlitz Propeller Cone Top

Brewed by the Jos. Schlitz Brewing Company of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, this cone top can features one of the most recognizable military-themed designs in breweriana: the "Propeller" motif. Finished in an olive drab military palette, the design was created during World War II when major American breweries contracted with the government to supply canned beer for armed forces personnel. The subdued color scheme helped avoid light reflection and blend into battlefield environments.

The central graphic highlights an aviation theme, featuring a streamlined aircraft nose cone fitted with a two-bladed propeller. The airplane's wings form horizontal banners displaying the bold "BEER" label, accompanied by the mandatory text "CONTENTS 12 FL. OZS." on the left and "BREWED IN U.S.A." on the right. Above the nose cone, an inverted triangular formation holds a cluster of stars, complemented by a horizontal row of five stars situated below the aircraft's tail assembly.

While some wartime military cans were distributed tax-free for overseas deployment, this domestic tax-paid variation is crowned with a beverage tax stamp. The propeller artwork remains a standout among wartime breweriana for its bold aeronautical styling and historical connection to the civilian brewing industry's support of military service members.