Horton Beer Flat Top Can

Horton Beer Flat Top from New York

This twelve-ounce flat top can represents an Internal Revenue Tax Paid (IRTP) era release of Horton Beer, produced by the Metropolis Brewery in New York, New York. Designed with metallic gold trim bordering its vivid orange field, this specific version is identified by the omission of the phrase "BREWED & PACKED BY" within its mandatory text panel. The label is anchored by Old English style typography over a central oval medallion depicting two hands raised in a toast, framed by the slogan "America's Finest".

Originally established by the Horton Pilsener Brewing Company following the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, the Horton label was marketed across the metropolitan area as a quality regional offering. Emphasizing tavern-style hospitality and fine craftsmanship, the brand enjoyed steady local distribution in New York taverns and package stores. As industry pressures led to rapid consolidation during the 1940s, the brand was absorbed through corporate mergers into Greater New York Brewery before production transitioned to the Metropolis Brewery lineup.

Metropolis Brewery operated out of the historic Manhattan facility at 501 First Avenue, a brewing site with roots dating back to Hermann Koehler & Co. and the pre-Prohibition Fidelio Brewery. Following corporate restructuring under Greater New York Industries during World War II, the facility operated as Metropolis Brewery in the postwar years. During this period, the plant packaged regional lagers, ales, and specialty malt beverages. By the early 1950s, metropolitan brewing operations ceased at the Manhattan site as equipment was liquidated and operations shifted to New Jersey.

Mid-century flat top cans from New York City's competitive brewing landscape hold strong appeal for breweriana collectors. This Horton can remains a desirable example of post-Prohibition packaging, appreciated for its bold toasting iconography, classic color scheme, and the subtle statutory text variations that document mid-twentieth-century canning history.