Old Milwaukee Beer Flat Top Can

Old Milwaukee Flat Top Can

The Old Milwaukee Beer flat top can represents a significant chapter in the mid-century portfolio of the Jos. Schlitz Brewing Company of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Introduced as a popular-priced companion to the flagship Schlitz label, Old Milwaukee served as a major regional and national competitor in the value beer segment.

Design and Branding

The graphic presentation of the can showcases classic mid-century breweriana styling. Dominated by bold typography, the recognizable Old Milwaukee script is displayed across the face alongside the traditional brewer's crest and shield motifs. The label incorporates contrasting red, blue, and white elements, framed with metallic accents characteristic of the era's lithographed metal packaging.

Manufacturing and Variations

To meet distribution demands across different territories, Jos. Schlitz sourced cans from major metal container manufacturers, including the Continental Can Company.

Among breweriana collectors, several variations are documented across different production runs. These variations feature subtle differences in the mandatory brewery text, plant location designations, slogan phrasing (such as the inclusion of "America's Light Beer"), and manufacturer can marks along the seam. Slight modifications in banner thickness, crest placement, and metallic trim detailing can also be found across various manufacturing batches.

Historical Legacy

As a foundational offering from Jos. Schlitz Brewing Company, the Old Milwaukee flat top can marks the post-war expansion of major Milwaukee brewing dynasties. It remains an essential artifact for collectors focused on Wisconsin brewing heritage, Schlitz company history, and classic mid-century American canned breweriana.