Heileman's Old Style Lager Beer Cone Top Can

Old Style Cone Top History

Produced by the G. Heileman Brewing Company of La Crosse, Wisconsin, the Old Style Lager Beer cone top can represents a classic piece of Midwestern brewing heritage. Heileman originally introduced the Old Style brand in the early twentieth century, and it rapidly grew to become the brewery's flagship label. When canned beer entered widespread distribution, Heileman adapted its graphic identity—centered around bold script lettering, the historic brewery crest, and a clean red, white, and blue palette—to fit the cone top container.

For breweriana enthusiasts, this can holds a prominent place in regional can history. Manufactured primarily by the Continental Can Company, the container was distributed with various design and mandatory text variations. Notable differences among examples include changes in alcohol statement phrasing, such as versions stating alcohol content by weight or volume, as well as pre-tax and Internal Revenue Tax Paid (IRTP) tax labeling. Collectors also recognize structural variations, including low-profile and high-profile body types as well as inverted rib bottoms.

Another distinctive feature on the face is the endorsement text stating "None Genuine Without This Signature" accompanied by the replica signature of founder G. Heileman, a measure originally created to protect brand authenticity. Throughout its production run, this can helped solidify Old Style's market presence across Wisconsin, Illinois, and the Upper Midwest. Today, it remains a sought-after piece for collectors specializing in Wisconsin brewing history and mid-century packaging.