Sterling Premium Pilsner Beer 12 Oz Zip/Tab Top Can

Sterling Premium Pilsner Tab Top

Produced by Sterling Brewers Inc. of Evansville, Indiana, the Sterling Premium Pilsner Beer 12 Oz Zip/Tab Top Can represents a major regional staple from one of the Ohio River Valley's most prominent brewing operations. With roots stretching back to the 19th century, Sterling grew to command a massive regional presence, widely distributed across Indiana, Kentucky, and throughout the American South.

Design and Labeling

The label showcases Sterling's classic graphic layout featuring the bold brand script and heritage crest, paired with the brewery's signature slogan, "Aged That Extra Month". Collectors note that variations of this can exist, with differences stemming from various can manufacturers—such as Continental Can Company and National Can Company—as well as minor shifts in mandatory text placement and metallic finish detailing.

Historical Context

During the broader era in which this can circulated, Sterling reached its centennial milestone in 1963 before the Evansville plant was acquired by the Associated Brewing Company in 1964. To maintain its strong regional market share, the company invested heavily in broadcast advertising, famously contracting the popular folk singing group The Chad Mitchell Trio for a series of well-known promotional jingles. Today, the can remains a classic representative of Indiana's mid-century brewing history.