F & S Pilsener Beer Cone Top Can

F & S Pilsener Cone Top Can

Produced by the Fuhrmann & Schmidt Brewing Company of Shamokin, Pennsylvania, the F & S Pilsener Beer cone top represents an important artifact of mid-Atlantic industrial brewing heritage. Originating from Pennsylvania's coal region, Fuhrmann & Schmidt—commonly known as F&S—served a dedicated market throughout the anthracite region and neighboring distribution networks.

Design and Construction

The container was manufactured using Continental Can Company's Cap Sealed technology, featuring a high-profile contoured cone and a standard crown finish. The graphic layout features bold crimson and metallic gold detailing surrounding the brewery's trademark circular monogram crest.

Documented Variations

Cone top collectors recognize several variations across different production runs:

• Tax Markings: The can was manufactured with both Internal Revenue Tax Paid (IRTP) legal notices and subsequent non-IRTP labeling after federal labeling requirements changed.
• Distributor Credits: While Shamokin is the primary location printed on the label, variations feature side-panel distribution text crediting regional distributor branches, including New York.
• Military Issue: Specialized olive drab versions were produced for shipment to overseas military personnel during World War II.

Regional Heritage

Fuhrmann & Schmidt was among the most resilient independent breweries in Central Pennsylvania. The brewery's cone top packaging documents the industry's mid-century shift toward canned packaged goods, making the F & S Pilsener can an enduring staple in Pennsylvania breweriana collections.