Rams Head (scheidt's) Ale Flat Top Can

Rams Head Ale Flat Top History

Produced by the Adam Scheidt Brewing Company of Norristown, Pennsylvania, the Rams Head Ale flat top is an enduring favorite among breweriana collectors. Scheidt introduced the Rams Head label to expand its presence throughout the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast, where it achieved substantial popularity alongside the company's flagship Valley Forge line, notably in major markets like Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and Philadelphia.

The can is celebrated for its graphic artwork, centered around a detailed illustration of a bighorn ram's head set within a circular medallion. Complemented by bold typography and metallic gold accents, the label design stood out prominently on retail shelves.

Breweriana enthusiasts recognize multiple manufacturing variations of this flat top. The label appeared in both early Opening Instructional (OI) versions and later non-instructional designs. Across its production run, cans were manufactured by major packaging companies including the American Can Company, Continental Can Company, and Crown Cork & Seal. These issues can be distinguished by specific seam details, such as the inclusion or absence of the "Keglined" trademark, varying state distributor notations (such as New York seam text), and state tax stamp imprints on the lids.

Following the acquisition of Adam Scheidt Brewing Company by Philadelphia’s C. Schmidt & Sons, seam markings were adjusted to reflect the change in corporate ownership. Due to the iconic animal motif and Scheidt's prominent regional brewing heritage, this flat top remains a staple piece for East Coast beer can collections.