Rare 1950s beer can sells for more than US$100k, smashing auction record
A one-of-a-kind Chief Oshkosh Crowntainer has set a new benchmark for brewery memorabilia, selling for US$111,150 at Morean Auctions. The sale signals rising demand for rare beer cans among collectors.
A vintage beer can from the 1950s has fetched US$111,150 at auction, setting a new world record for a single piece of brewery advertising. Sold by Massachusetts-based Morean Auctions, the Chief Oshkosh Crowntainer is believed to be the only known example of its kind and is considered to be in near-perfect condition.
The record-breaking sale eclipsed the previous benchmark of US$93,600, also set by Morean Auctions. According to the auction house, interest in the can soared following a Facebook post by founder Dan Morean, which outlined its provenance and journey through various owners since the early 1950s.
The winning bidder, a collector from Wisconsin, home to the original Chief Oshkosh Beer brand, said the post inspired him to pursue the item and “bring it back to its home state”.
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A “thrilling” sale
Dan Morean commented: “It was both thrilling and validating to see the price surpass $100,000. These old beer cans were never meant to be collectibles. They were designed to be disposed of, which makes them incredibly rare. Collectors have had a deep passion for them since the 1970s, and it’s gratifying to see them gain the recognition they truly deserve.”
Morean Auctions is currently the only licensed auction house in the world specialising in beer cans and alcohol-related advertising. The company began as a retail business in 1997 before launching its dedicated auction platform in 2016.
The firm has built a strong reputation in the niche world of breweriana (collectables related to beer and brewing) thanks to its focus on high-quality service, in-house photography and design, as well as expedited consignor payments. Several major private collections have sold through the platform in recent years.
With interest in vintage brewery memorabilia showing no signs of slowing, Morean Auctions says it will continue sourcing rare cans, trays, signs, and illuminated advertising from across the US and beyond.
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