Pabst Blue Ribbon Beer Flat Top Can

Pabst Blue Ribbon Flat Top Can

The Can

This 12-ounce flat top container represents a classic mid-century packaging era for Pabst Blue Ribbon. Notable on the upper right shoulder is the proprietary "TapaCan" designation, a branding mark used following Pabst's early partnership with the American Can Company in the 1930s. The front face features the flowing red script "Pabst" above a diagonal "BLUE RIBBON" banner, anchored in the center by the circular "PABST BREWERIES" emblem displaying the traditional hop leaf crest and ribbon tails over a solid lower band marked "BEER."

The Brand

Originally launched as "Best Select," the brand gained widespread attention in 1882 when blue silk ribbons were hand-tied around the neck of each bottle to help it stand out in taverns. Following its celebrated promotion surrounding the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago, public demand for the "blue ribbon beer" prompted the brewery to officially rename the flagship offering Pabst Blue Ribbon in 1899. Throughout the twentieth century, the brand became a cornerstone of American culture through memorable marketing campaigns, including the famous "What'll you have?" slogan and nationwide television sponsorship of the Pabst Blue Ribbon Bouts.

The Brewery

Founded in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1844 by Jacob Best and his sons, the brewery grew into a powerhouse under the leadership of Captain Frederick Pabst. By the late nineteenth century, it had risen to become one of the largest brewing enterprises in the United States. Pabst successfully navigated Prohibition by diversifying into malt syrup and cheese production before rapidly modernizing operations upon Repeal. The company expanded significantly through nationwide acquisitions and facility modernization during the mid-century period, remaining a central fixture of American brewing heritage.

Collecting Context

As one of the most celebrated and ubiquitous brands in brewing history, vintage flat tops from Pabst form a cornerstone for beer can collectors. Cans bearing the distinctive "TapaCan" hallmark are especially appreciated as key artifacts documenting mid-century industrial can design and post-Prohibition national marketing.