Rainier Old Stock Ale Flat Top Can

Pacific Northwest Collector Classic

The Rainier Old Stock Ale flat top can, produced by Sicks' Rainier Brewing Co. in Seattle, Washington, represents a notable chapter in Pacific Northwest breweriana history. Rainier was one of the most prominent regional brewing operations on the West Coast, and its ale packaging remains highly regarded among specialized collectors.

Design and Features

While Rainier was widely recognized for its flagship lager lines and themed Jubilee promotional series, Old Stock Ale provided a contrasting, traditional aesthetic. The graphic layout features bold Rainier branding accompanied by classic crest motifs and heraldic design elements. The cans were produced with the American Can Company Keglined process, bearing the manufacturer's hallmark on the seam panel.

Documented Variations

Advanced collectors identify a variety of production differences across the lifespan of this label:

• Luster and Finish: The label was pressed with different paint applications, including metallic background finishes as well as standard flat enameled coats.
• Volume Formats: Examples were released in standard twelve-ounce capacities as well as regional eleven-ounce formats popular in the Pacific Northwest market.
• Brewery Nomenclature: Minor text alterations appear on the side panels and mandatory text blocks, reflecting changing corporate phrasing and plant markings across production runs.

Historical Significance

Under the leadership of the Emil Sick brewing empire, the Seattle facility produced millions of barrels and served as an anchor of industrial brewing in the region. Unlike standard promotional series that received wide novelty distribution, the Old Stock Ale flat top can holds historical interest as a dedicated ale brand marketed directly alongside the company's mainstay lagers.