Old Tap Select Stock Ale Cone Top Can

Old Tap Select Stock Ale Cone Top

The Old Tap Select Stock Ale cone top can is a classic artifact of mid-twentieth-century New England brewing history. Originating from the Internal Revenue Tax Paid (IRTP) era, this twelve-ounce container features high-profile cone top construction. Its presentation centers on a detailed pictorial portrait framed in gold against a rich forest-green body, depicting a cheerful, winking gentleman in historic tavern attire raising a footed glass of foamy golden ale, set beneath bold Old English gothic lettering.

Following the repeal of Prohibition, Enterprise Brewing Company launched the Old Tap brand as a cornerstone offering in its lineup. Positioned to appeal to tastes for traditional, rich ales, the "Select Stock" label signified a premium, carefully aged beverage. The jovial toper motif became a recognizable mascot for the brand, replicated across extensive point-of-sale advertising, lithographed serving trays, neon illuminated tavern signs, and bottle labels throughout the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s.

Enterprise Brewing Company operated in the historic manufacturing city of Fall River, Massachusetts. The company's lineage dated back to the late nineteenth century with the founding of the Old Colony Brewery in 1896. After weathering the dry years of Prohibition, the facility re-emerged in 1933 as the Enterprise Brewing Company on Glasgow Street. Enterprise built a loyal regional following across southern New England, producing a variety of ales, porters, and lagers tailored to local trade. However, as national brewing conglomerates expanded post-war distribution networks and intensified pricing pressure, the independent Fall River operation succumbed to industry consolidation, ultimately closing its doors in 1963.

Among breweriana enthusiasts, this can holds strong appeal for collectors specializing in Massachusetts breweries and vintage character packaging. Graphic cone tops highlighting expressive character portraits from regional producers capture an iconic design style from the golden age of metal packaging, making this piece a celebrated representative of New England's mid-century brewing heritage.