Pabst Old Tankard Ale Flat Top Can

Pabst Old Tankard Ale Can History

Produced by Pabst in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the Pabst Old Tankard Ale flat top holds a notable place in breweriana history as one of the earliest nationally distributed canned ales. Pabst was among the first major breweries to embrace American Can Company's patented Keglined canning process, heavily promoting the packaging under the trademarked "Tap-a-can" slogan.

The can features an iconic front design centered on a cheerful swashbuckler cavalier hoisting a brimming tankard. Complementing the bold branding, early versions featured descriptive panels emphasizing the benefits of the brewery-sealed, light-protective container. During its mid-century peak, the brand achieved major commercial popularity, holding status as the second best-selling ale nationwide behind Ballantine.

For collectors, the can offers significant historical depth. Known variations exist from different manufacturing eras, reflecting corporate name changes—specifically the transition from Premier-Pabst Corporation to Pabst Brewing Company. Other identifiable variations include differences in mandatory text, such as Internal Revenue Tax Paid (IRTP) statements, patent pending notices, brewery location credits (including Peoria Heights, Illinois alongside Milwaukee), and varying typography styles on the title lettering.