Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Abstract/Artist Statement
Believe it or not, some beverage cans and pull tabs are now historic-era artifacts. Zip, Snap, or Tab top cans were first introduced in 1962. By 1963, 65 brands used the new design. In 1964, Continental Can Co. introduced the U-tab. But early styles left sharp edges and people got injured. So in 1965, the Ring Tab was invented. Ring tabs were used until 1975, but were also a health hazard. That’s when the Sta-Tab was invented, a style which persists until today. It is not always possible to tell the difference between a ring tab manufactured in 1965 from one manufactured in 1975, but they are distinctly different than Zip and U-tabs. This poster outlines can and tab chronology so that quick identification can be made in the field. The best way to tell if a can is an historic-era artifact is to research the label and company history.
Mentor Name
Dr. Richard Sattler
Beverage Cans and Pull Tabs: A Refreshing Look
Believe it or not, some beverage cans and pull tabs are now historic-era artifacts. Zip, Snap, or Tab top cans were first introduced in 1962. By 1963, 65 brands used the new design. In 1964, Continental Can Co. introduced the U-tab. But early styles left sharp edges and people got injured. So in 1965, the Ring Tab was invented. Ring tabs were used until 1975, but were also a health hazard. That’s when the Sta-Tab was invented, a style which persists until today. It is not always possible to tell the difference between a ring tab manufactured in 1965 from one manufactured in 1975, but they are distinctly different than Zip and U-tabs. This poster outlines can and tab chronology so that quick identification can be made in the field. The best way to tell if a can is an historic-era artifact is to research the label and company history.