Schmidt's Cream Ale Crowntainer

Schmidt's Cream Ale Can History

The Schmidt's Cream Ale Crowntainer was produced by C. Schmidt & Sons of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This can features the iconic "Tiger Brand" artwork, highlighted by a snarling tiger head centerpiece enclosed within a bold circular emblem. The graphic identity was inherited from the historic Robert Smith Ale Brewery—originally established in 1774—which C. Schmidt & Sons acquired to bolster its ale production line.

The can's text prominently highlights this brewing pedigree, explicitly noting that the product was crafted after the manner employed by Robert Smith. Schmidt's cans from this era are frequently associated with the brewery's "Silver Noggin" moniker, reflecting the metallic silver finish of the body. As with many mid-century American cans, it features the mandatory "Internal Revenue Tax Paid" (IRTP) text statement.

For breweriana collectors, known variations exist across production runs. These differences primarily involve the alignment and placement of mandatory copyright and trademark notices—such as text appearing either above or below specific slogans—along with different regional distributor markings on the reverse panel. Its striking tiger imagery and deep ties to Philadelphia brewing history make it a standout piece among regional can collectors.