Esslinger's Bock Quart

Esslinger's Bock 32 oz Cone Top

The Can
Produced during the Internal Revenue Tax Paid (IRTP) era, this 32-ounce cone top quart represents an early large-format canned package from Philadelphia's Esslinger's brewery. The container is distinguished by its dynamic illustration pairing the brewery's signature mascot—the cheerful, uniformed "Little Man"—riding atop a leaping bock goat while raising a frothing glass mug. The lower section highlights the brewery name in flowing cursive script above bold block lettering reading "BOCK BEER" and the mandatory "CONTENTS 1 QUART" volume declaration.

The Brand
Esslinger's bock beer was brewed as a rich, darker seasonal offering traditionally released in early spring to celebrate the brewing calendar. The brewery built immense brand recognition around its smiling mascot, utilizing the character across tavern signs, trays, promotional vehicles, and packaging. This lighthearted, highly illustrated branding helped Esslinger's establish a distinctive shelf and barroom presence throughout the Mid-Atlantic market.

The Brewery
George Esslinger established the brewery in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1868. After relocating to the Callowhill neighborhood in the late 1870s, the company grew into one of the city's prominent regional producers. Following George Esslinger's passing during Prohibition, the Brown brothers purchased the facilities and resumed brewing as Esslinger's, Inc. following Repeal in 1933. The revitalized company became a regional pioneer in canning technology, becoming the first local Philadelphia brewery to bring canned beer to market. Esslinger's operated successfully as an independent regional brewery until consolidating pressures forced its closure in 1964.

Collecting Context
Quart cone tops occupy a celebrated niche among breweriana enthusiasts due to their impressive size and dramatic shelf presence. IRTP-era quart containers that combine bold thematic bock artwork with prominent mascot illustrations remain particularly sought after by collectors of Pennsylvania brewing history and vintage cone tops.