Schmidt Extra Special Draft 16 Oz Tab Top Can

Schmidt Extra Special 16 Oz Draft

The Schmidt Extra Special Draft 16-ounce can is a notable artifact from the Jacob Schmidt Division of Associated Brewing Company, based in St. Paul, Minnesota. Associated Brewing Company acquired the historic Jacob Schmidt brand during its mid-century expansion, leading to the distinctive "Jacob Schmidt Div. of Associated" mandatory text on the side panels.

While Schmidt is widely recognized for its extensive series of pictorial wildlife and outdoor cans, the Extra Special Draft series offered a distinct graphic departure. This 16-ounce pint format features bold, clean typography centered on the "Schmidt Extra Special Draft Beer" branding alongside the brewery’s signature regional motto, "The Brew That Grew With The Great Northwest".

For collectors of Upper Midwest breweriana, pint-sized Schmidt cans from this operational era are particularly desirable due to their lower distribution volume compared to standard 12-ounce containers. Variations exist across different manufacturing runs, including differences in mandatory text placement, variations with and without the city designation on the can body, and bottom lids bearing statutory alcohol statements such as non-intoxicating 3.2% alcohol-by-weight designations.