Pabst Blue Ribbon Beer 16 Oz Tab Top Can

Pabst Blue Ribbon 16 Oz Tab Top

Produced by the Pabst Brewing Company of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the Pabst Blue Ribbon 16-ounce tab top can represents a classic example of large-format breweriana from one of America's most historic brewing companies.

Design and Branding

The can showcases Pabst's signature diagonal blue ribbon across a white background, accented with red striping and classic typography. The face of the can highlights the brand's heritage dating back to 1844 and references its historic recognition at the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago. The 16-ounce "tall boy" or pint format was marketed to provide a larger single serving than standard 12-ounce containers.

Collector Notes and Variations

This 16-ounce Pabst container is a staple for collectors of American breweriana. Multiple variations exist across production runs, reflecting shifts in brewery operations and manufacturing methods. Common differences between issues include variations in mandatory tax statements, modifications in the listed brewery locations (often including Milwaukee alongside facilities such as Peoria Heights, Newark, or Los Angeles), and transitions between steel bodies with aluminum ends and all-aluminum construction.

Due to the widespread national distribution and enduring popularity of the Pabst brand, this pint can remains an essential centerpiece for collections focused on Wisconsin brewing history and major post-war American brewing giants.