Schlitz Beer Flat Top Can

Schlitz Milwaukee Flat Top Can

Produced by the Jos. Schlitz Brewing Company of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the Schlitz Flat Top Can is an iconic piece of American breweriana. Schlitz, historically recognized by its famous slogan "The Beer That Made Milwaukee Famous," established itself as one of the brewing giants of the United States. Following the Great Chicago Fire, when the brewery sent shipments of beer to assist the city, the brand enjoyed immense national popularity, eventually vying for the title of the largest brewer in the country.

While Schlitz initially favored cone top cans during the early era of canned beer, the brewery embraced flat tops as the format became the dominant industry packaging standard. The standard design of the Schlitz flat top features bold, clean typography highlighted by the familiar Schlitz script logo, the classic belted globe emblem, and prominent promotional text.

For breweriana collectors, the Schlitz flat top is notable for several documented variations produced throughout its manufacturing history. Variations across production runs include differences in mandatory alcohol content statements (such as designations tailored for state-specific laws), slight alterations in corporate copyright text, and subtle adjustments in the layout of the emblem and bordering. Differences also appear in the can lid stampings depending on the container manufacturer contracted by the brewery.

Representing the high point of Milwaukee's industrial brewing heritage, this can serves as a foundational collectible for enthusiasts of classic American beer brands.