Old Milwaukee Genuine Draft Flat Top Can

1966 Old Milwaukee Flat Top Can

The Old Milwaukee Genuine Draft Flat Top Can represents a mid-1960s packaging design from the historic Jos. Schlitz Brewing Company of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Marketed as a premier value brand within the Schlitz portfolio, Old Milwaukee emphasized its "Genuine Draft" presentation on retail shelves during this era.

Design and Manufacturing Characteristics

Bearing a 1966 copyright marking, this 12-ounce steel can is distinguished by its reflective metallic finish that highlights the core label graphics. The visual presentation centers on the recognizable Old Milwaukee script over bold red accenting and traditional brewery crests.

From a manufacturing standpoint, the can body is constructed with a wide soldered side seam. During this era of container production, can manufacturers utilized multiple seam-bonding methods and coating finishes. Collectors recognize variations across the Genuine Draft line featuring different seam styles, including glued and wide seams, as well as distinct metallic and matte surface sheens.

Historical Context

By 1966, self-opening pull tabs had established a dominant market presence across the United States brewing industry. Consequently, flat top cans manufactured in the mid-to-late 1960s represent the twilight years of flat top production for major national breweries. The Jos. Schlitz Brewing Company continued filling flat top cans during this period for specific regional markets, export channels, and institutional distribution, making these late-era flat tops an interesting study for breweriana enthusiasts.