Esslinger's Little Man Ale Quart

Esslinger's Little Man Ale Quart Cone

This 32-ounce cone top quart can was produced for Esslinger's, Inc. of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Bearing an Internal Revenue Tax Paid statement, the container features the brewery's famous character centered within a circular medallion. A notable element of this specific issue is the 1938 copyright marking accompanying the graphic, which depicts the winking bellhop balancing a serving tray carrying two glasses and a flat top can—a design distinction from other releases that showcase alternate container styles on the tray. Flanking the main lettering, the front face also incorporates practical service notices, including "CONTENTS 1 QUART" and "COOL BEFORE SERVING."

The "Little Man" mascot (often associated with the brand's "King Pin" line) was introduced in the 1930s following the repeal of Prohibition. Presented as an energetic, winking server hustling to deliver fresh brew, the character became one of the most recognizable advertising figures in the Mid-Atlantic. Esslinger's built extensive marketing around the mascot, featuring him across porcelain signs, serving trays, salt-and-pepper shakers, and tap knobs. Little Man Ale remained a flagship product for the company throughout the pre- and post-World War II eras.

Esslinger's was founded in 1868 by German immigrant George Esslinger. After moving to its landmark facility near 10th and Callowhill Streets, the brewery grew into a local staple. It survived Prohibition by producing legal near-beer and malt products, which allowed the operation to reopen immediately upon Repeal in 1933. Esslinger's proved to be an aggressive innovator, becoming the first brewery to introduce canned beer to the Philadelphia market. It endured as one of only four breweries to survive in Philadelphia through the 1950s before being acquired by Jacob Ruppert in the 1960s.

Quart cone top cans are consistently popular among breweriana collectors due to their commanding display size and generous label real estate. Cans centered around full-body mascot illustrations hold broad crossover appeal, making this Esslinger's quart a classic highlight of mid-century regional packaging.