Fitger's Rex Imperial Dry Beer Cone Top Can

Fitger's Rex Imperial Dry Can

Produced by the historic Fitger Brewing Company in Duluth, Minnesota, the Rex Imperial Dry Beer can represents an iconic era of Upper Midwest brewing. Located directly on the shores of Lake Superior, Fitger established deep regional distribution across Minnesota, northern Wisconsin, and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

Graphic Design and Branding

The container features the distinguished "Rex" brand identity, centered around bold typography and an ornate crown motif that plays on the Latin word for "king". The "Imperial Dry" moniker reflects the post-Prohibition marketing shift toward refined product lines. Finished in metallic gold and cream tones, the packaging also carries the brewery's regional tagline, "Naturally Brewed Naturally Better".

Collector Variations

Among breweriana enthusiasts, the Rex Imperial Dry can is recognized for its multiple production variations across runs manufactured by Crown Cork & Seal:

• Tax Disclosures: Examples exist from earlier production featuring the mandatory "Internal Revenue Tax Paid" (IRTP) statement, as well as subsequent non-IRTP releases.
• Alcohol Content Statements: Different variations accommodate state-level legal requirements, carrying markings such as "Alcohol Content 3.2% By Weight," strong beer notices, or no alcohol statement at all.
• Graphic Detail Nuances: Minor print variations appear across batches, including versions printed with or without vertical lining along the side panels.

Today, the Fitger's Rex Imperial Dry can remains a quintessential centerpiece of northern Minnesota breweriana, representing the mid-century legacy of Duluth's landmark waterfront brewery.