Rainier Beer Flat Top Can

Sicks' Rainier Spokane Flat Top

Produced by Sicks' Rainier Brewing Co. in Spokane, Washington, this Rainier Beer flat top can represents an important regional chapter in Pacific Northwest brewing history. Operating as part of the regional brewing enterprise established by Emil Sick, the Spokane facility served as a key production hub to supply Rainier products throughout Eastern Washington and the Inland Northwest.

Regional Mandatory Markings

While Rainier packaging was widely recognized across the Pacific Northwest, cans filled at the Spokane plant are distinguished by mandatory text identifying Sicks' Rainier Brewing in Spokane, setting them apart from sister cans filled at the primary Seattle facility. The lithography features the classic red Rainier gothic script and heraldic motifs that defined the brand's mid-century aesthetic.

The Seattle Wind Tunnel Discovery

Rainier flat top cans earned legendary status within breweriana collecting following the famous Seattle wind tunnel discovery. A massive cache of preserved Rainier cans from both the Seattle and Spokane packaging lines was uncovered in a decommissioned aeronautical wind tunnel. This historic event brought widespread hobby attention to Sicks' mid-century packaging and cemented these Spokane-labeled cans as celebrated staples among Pacific Northwest collectors.

Design Variations and Sets

The Spokane brewery produced Rainier flat tops across various decorative campaigns, including the celebrated Jubilee and thematic pictorial series. Collectors document multiple variations across these runs, including shifts in background metallic tones, differing layouts in the mandatory statements, and promotional vanity lids stamped with regional alcohol tax notices.