Rex Pale Lager Beer Flat Top Can

Maier's Regal Rex Pale Lager Flat Top

This 12-ounce flat top beer can dates to the early 1960s and represents a classic regional offering from Southern California. A key identifying characteristic of this variation is the volume declaration, "NET CONTENTS 12 FLUID OUNCES," printed directly across the upper rim of the blue background above the central crest design. The layout prominently incorporates regal heraldry, featuring a pointed crown over a large heraldic shield containing bold Old English lettering, accompanied by fleur-de-lis motifs framing the scene.

Rex Pale Lager was introduced by the Maier Brewing Company around 1960 as an economically priced, everyday regional beer. Capitalizing on the Latin word Rex (meaning "king"), Maier marketed the brand with the proud slogan "Fit for a King," which is emblazoned in flowing script beneath the shield. The brand provided local consumers with an affordable alternative to national macro-lagers and remained part of Maier's portfolio through the decade.

The Maier Brewing Company was one of the defining names in Los Angeles brewing history. Joseph Maier co-founded the enterprise in 1882 on North Spring Street in downtown Los Angeles. Following Maier's death, the business continued operating under the Maier name and weathered Prohibition by producing near-beer and non-alcoholic beverages. After Repeal, Maier resumed brewing standard beer, gaining fame for its flagship Brew 102. In the late 1950s, industrialist Paul Kalmanovitz acquired the brewery and pivoted the plant toward high-volume production of budget labels, store brands, and contract brewing. Maier continued operations until it was purchased by General Brewing in 1971, with the historic downtown Los Angeles facility ultimately closing in 1974.

Among breweriana enthusiasts, this Rex flat top is a cherished piece of mid-century California brewing memorabilia. It holds strong appeal for collectors focusing on vintage West Coast breweries, Los Angeles regional labels, and the extensive variety of value-tier brands produced during the Kalmanovitz era at Maier.