University Club Malt Lager Small Can

University Club Malt Lager Can

The University Club Malt Lager Small Can represents a notable chapter in Milwaukee brewing history, produced under the Gettelman Division of Miller Brewing Company. Following Miller's acquisition of the historic A. Gettelman Brewing Company, the Gettelman facilities continued packaging select regional and specialty labels, preserving classic brand names while operating under Miller's broader manufacturing network.

Nomenclature and Distribution

The University Club label is recognized among breweriana enthusiasts for its refined, collegiate-inspired aesthetic. What makes this small-format can particularly interesting to collectors is the specific "Malt Lager" designation. During its production era, regional alcohol laws and taxation guidelines often dictated whether a malt beverage was categorized and labeled as a "Malt Liquor" or a "Malt Lager." Because the vast majority of University Club cans were labeled as malt liquor, examples featuring the "Malt Lager" text are significantly scarcer.

Design and Collector Appeal

Produced in an 8-ounce format, this can was designed for smaller, single-serving portions often favored for higher-strength malt beverages and club service. The graphic design features the established University Club crest and traditional typography. The mandatory text clearly denotes "Gettelman Div. of Miller" in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, capturing the transitional period of industry consolidation among classic Milwaukee breweries.

Variations exist across the University Club label series, reflecting minor adjustments in mandatory legal text, trade markings, and product descriptions across different canning runs. For collectors specializing in small cans or Milwaukee brewing heritage, this can stands out as a prized specialty issue.