Clipper Beer Cone Top Can

Renner Clipper Aviation Cone Top

The Clipper Beer low-profile cone top is widely regarded by breweriana enthusiasts as one of the premier graphic treasures of the pre-World War II canning era. Manufactured by the Continental Can Company for The Renner Co. of Youngstown, Ohio, the can stands out prominently due to its striking aviation theme.

Design and Collector Significance

The lithography features a prominent multi-engine clipper-style flying boat cruising across a dark backdrop, evoking the golden age of commercial aviation. During this era, clipper airplanes captured widespread public fascination, and Renner utilized the aircraft imagery as a symbol of modernity and adventure to market their pilsner.

Among advanced collectors, this can holds elite status. Its vivid pictorial styling makes it a centerpiece of pre-war breweriana collections, and well-preserved examples have historically commanded substantial sums at specialized auctions and private sales.

Regional Distribution and Variations

While brewed and packaged at the Renner plant in Youngstown, Ohio, the beer was shipped across state lines through regional distributor agreements. Known variations exist among surviving examples, differing primarily in the distributor credit text printed along the side panels, with examples noted for regional distribution in upstate New York as well as direct brewery distribution markings.