Pabst Blue Ribbon Export Beer Flat Top Can

Pabst Blue Ribbon Export Beer

The Pabst Blue Ribbon Export Beer flat top can represents a landmark release from Pabst in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Produced during the formative era of canned beverage packaging, this container highlights Pabst's early adoption of the American Can Company's patented "Keglined" process, which prevented the liquid from reacting with the metal interior.

The label artwork showcases the company's signature blue ribbon insignia draped across the face, paying homage to the blue silk ribbons hand-tied to Pabst bottles after winning awards at the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition. Set against a clean backdrop with bold typography, the "Export Beer" designation was prominently featured on early runs alongside Premier-Pabst and Pabst Brewing Company corporate markings.

Collector interest in this can centers heavily on its historical design elements and variations. Early releases feature opening instruction panels on the side and reverse faces, complete with diagrams illustrating can opener placement. The can also appears across multiple production variations featuring different mandatory tax markings, including the "Internal Revenue Tax Paid" (IRTP) statement as well as tax-exempt export versions distributed to the armed forces during wartime. Furthermore, collectors track differences in manufacturer stamps from companies such as American Can Company and Continental Can Company, alongside subtle differences in enamel and metallic finishes.

As one of the earliest widely distributed canned offerings from the Milwaukee brewing powerhouse, the Pabst Blue Ribbon Export Beer flat top remains a foundational piece for breweriana enthusiasts documenting the history of American brewing.