Old Topper Ale Crowntainer

Rochester's Old Topper Ale Can

The Old Topper Ale Crowntainer is a celebrated regional piece produced by the Rochester Brewing Company of Rochester, New York. Manufactured by the Crown Cork & Seal Company, the container features the brewery's signature "Old Topper" character—a dapper, top-hatted gentleman with a monocle that served as the hallmark persona for the brand.

Design and Known Variations

The graphic presentation of the can pairs classic mid-century typography with decorative scrollwork framing the central mascot. For collectors, the Old Topper brand is especially notable for its distinct design variations. Some cans feature the "Snappy Ale" moniker, while others omit the phrase in favor of standard ale branding. Variations also exist in the background color schemes, ranging from standard metallic and darker finishes to an extraordinarily scarce white-bodied version. One such white-background specimen drew widespread acclaim and substantial bids when it crossed the block from the prominent Bob McCoy collection.

Additionally, text markings on the can reflect mid-twentieth-century federal requirements, with earlier issues bearing the "Internal Revenue Tax Paid" (IRTP) statement.

Breweriana Significance

Rochester Brewing Company relied heavily on the Old Topper line throughout Upstate New York, making it one of the defining regional labels of its era. Today, the Old Topper Ale Crowntainer remains a staple centerpiece for collectors specializing in New York brewing history and Crown Cork & Seal productions.