Ortlieb's Export Lager Beer Cone Top Can

Ortlieb's Export Lager Cone Top

The Ortlieb's Export Lager Beer cone top can represents a notable chapter in Philadelphia's rich brewing heritage. Produced for the Henry F. Ortlieb Brewing Company—headquartered in the historic Northern Liberties neighborhood on North American and 3rd Streets—this container was distributed throughout Pennsylvania and surrounding Mid-Atlantic markets.

Design and Branding

The can features the prominent "Ortlieb's" script alongside the "Export Lager Beer" designation and the brewery's traditional crest. The label graphics reflect the mid-century commercial aesthetic used by the family-owned brewery, frequently incorporating promotional slogans such as "Well Brewed - Full-Bodied - Aged" alongside mandatory packaging notifications from the era.

Collector Variations

Breweriana collectors recognize variations across production runs of this can. Differences between issues include the placement and font size of the fluid ounce statement relative to the top rim, alternate "Cap Sealed" manufacturer logos from the Continental Can Company, and varying regulatory tax text such as Internal Revenue Tax Paid (IRTP) notices.

Historical Significance

As one of Philadelphia's prominent independent brewing establishments, the Henry F. Ortlieb Brewing Company maintained operations for over a century before closing its original facilities during the broader wave of American brewery consolidations. Cans bearing the original Ortlieb's Export Lager brand remain popular regional display pieces among East Coast breweriana enthusiasts.