White Horse Pilsener Beer Quart

The Legendary Westminster Quart

The White Horse Pilsener Beer Quart is one of the most celebrated and highly sought-after artifacts of Chicago breweriana. Originating under the Westminster Brewing Company of Chicago, Illinois, this large-format container represents a significant chapter in the city's rich post-Prohibition brewing landscape.

Brewery Heritage

Westminster Brewing Company operated out of South Union Avenue in Chicago following the repeal of Prohibition. Like several transitional operations of that era, the company maintained close operational ties and shared facilities with other regional brewing entities, including the Manhattan Brewing Company and Prima Brewing Company. Because Westminster operated independently under this name for only a brief period, authentic containers bearing the original brewery designation were produced in limited supply.

Graphic Design

The White Horse label is distinguished by bold, dramatic artwork. The primary motif features a rearing white stallion set against high-contrast red, black, and white coloring. Flanked by clean mid-century block lettering and traditional heraldic accents, the expansive surface area of the quart container gave the illustration commanding visual appeal on tavern backbars and store displays.

Hobby Significance and Market Impact

Among collectors specializing in large-format containers and Midwest breweriana, the White Horse Quart holds status as a premier collectible. The confluence of vivid graphics, historical ties to pre-war Chicago brewing, and overall scarcity makes it a major highlight whenever an example surfaces. In major breweriana auctions, authentic White Horse cans have achieved headline-worthy results, with notable specimens reaching well into five-figure sales sums.

Documented Variations

Advanced collectors recognize variations of the White Horse container. These differences primarily involve the fine print on the side and back panels, reflecting mandatory regulatory markings, canning manufacturing line codes, and variations in manufacturer attribution, including instances noting successor companies.