Rainier Beer Flat Top Can

Spokane Rainier Beer Flat Top

Produced by Sicks' Spokane Brewery in Spokane, Washington, this Rainier Beer flat top can represents an important regional chapter in Pacific Northwest brewing history. Under the leadership of brewing magnate Emil Sick, the enterprise expanded beyond its flagship Seattle facility, using the Spokane plant to package and distribute beer across Eastern Washington, Idaho, and the broader Inland Northwest.

Regional Labeling and Variations

While the front graphics showcase the familiar red gothic Rainier lettering and heraldic crest elements, cans packaged at the Spokane plant are distinguished by mandatory text explicitly naming Sicks' Spokane Brewery. This manufacturer text differentiates them from sister cans filled at the primary Seattle operations.

Collectors recognize several variations associated with the Spokane facility. These variations include subtle adjustments to the formatting and placement of mandatory statements, differences in metallic background hues, and distinct top lid stampings applied to meet regional alcohol content labeling requirements across adjacent distribution territories. The Spokane facility also produced decorative runs tied to celebratory toast themes and illustrated scene promotions.

The Seattle Wind Tunnel Discovery

Rainier flat tops from this era earned significant prominence in breweriana history following the famous Seattle wind tunnel discovery. A massive cache of Rainier cans originating from both the Spokane and Seattle packaging facilities was discovered sealed inside a decommissioned aeronautical wind tunnel in Washington. This landmark event brought major collector attention to mid-century Rainier cans and highlighted the graphic variety and regional mandatory prints utilized across Emil Sick's brewing network. Today, Rainier cans carrying the Spokane mandatory statement remain celebrated historical pieces for Pacific Northwest breweriana enthusiasts.