Sheridan Export Beer Flat Top Can

Pueblo-Brewed Sheridan Export Can

This 12-ounce steel flat top container dates to the post-World War II era of non-IRTP canning during the 1950s. Produced with clean mid-century lithography, the can is distinguished by its vibrant yellow body divided by thin red horizontal rules. The top shoulder carries the prominent slogan "Famous for Flavor" rendered in an elegant cursive script, while the lower section features the declaration "Brewed from Choicest Materials." Along the solid black bottom skirt, mandatory text identifies the packaging by The Walter Brewing Co. in Pueblo, Colorado.

The Brand

The Sheridan brand originally established its heritage farther north in Wyoming, where it was introduced by the Sheridan Brewing Company as a flagship regional brew. Known for its loyal regional following, the label was promoted for its rich character and classic lager profile. In the mid-1950s, following the closure of the original Wyoming plant, Walter Brewing acquired the brand rights to retain its established market presence across the Rocky Mountain and Plains states. Walter sustained the brand for several years through dedicated regional marketing before industry competition eventually brought the label to an end.

The Brewery

The Walter Brewing Company was founded in 1898 by German immigrant Martin Walter, a member of a well-known multi-generational brewing family. Setting up shop along the Arkansas River valley in Pueblo, the brewery catered to local steelworkers and miners while steadily expanding its reach. Walter Brewing weathered Colorado’s statewide dry laws enacted in 1916 and the subsequent nationwide Prohibition by pivoting to near-beer and non-alcoholic beverages. It was one of only four breweries in Colorado to survive and reopen upon Repeal in 1933. During the postwar decades, Walter operated as a prolific regional producer, packaging dozens of proprietary and acquired labels until mounting competition from national mega-breweries forced its closure in 1975.

Collecting Context

This can holds strong appeal for collectors of Western breweriana and Rocky Mountain regional canning history. It represents a noteworthy cross-state brand transition, capturing the period when iconic Wyoming brewing intellectual property was preserved and produced within the industrial hub of southern Colorado.