When it comes to the world of beer can collecting, there is a term that is often used to describe those passionate individuals who dedicate their time and efforts to amassing a collection of these cultural artifacts. So, what is a beer can collector called? Let’s dive into the fascinating world of breweriana and discover the answer.
The Beer Can Collectors of America (BCCA)
The first and most well-known group dedicated to beer can collecting in the United States is the Beer Can Collectors of America, affectionately known as the BCCA. This organization was founded in the 1960s and has played a crucial role in bringing enthusiasts together and promoting the hobby. Members of the BCCA proudly call themselves “Beer Can Collectors” or simply “Can Collectors.”
Breweriana Clubs
While the BCCA primarily focuses on beer cans, there are other clubs that cater to a wider range of collectibles known as breweriana. These clubs, such as the Brewery Collectibles Club of America (BCCA), the National Association Breweriana Advertising (NABA), and the American Breweriana Association (ABA), encompass a broader scope of items including signs, trays, coasters, labels, tap knobs, and of course, beer cans. Collectors who are members of these clubs may refer to themselves as “breweriana collectors.”
Beer Can Enthusiasts
Not all beer can collectors choose to be affiliated with specific clubs or organizations. There are countless enthusiastic individuals who find joy in collecting beer cans as a personal hobby. These passionate collectors often refer to themselves as “beer can enthusiasts” or simply “can enthusiasts.” They may focus on a particular theme or era, such as vintage cans, craft beers, or international brews, and take pride in curating a unique and diverse collection.
Can Hounds
Within the beer can collecting community, you may come across the term “can hounds.” This informal nickname is given to collectors who have a relentless passion for seeking out rare and valuable cans. These individuals are known for their dedication to scouring flea markets, antique shops, online auctions, and even digging through old dumps in search of hidden treasures to add to their collections.
Breweriana Historians
Some collectors not only focus on the physical aspect of beer cans but also take a keen interest in the history and stories behind them. These individuals often delve deep into research, studying the evolution of beer can designs, the breweries that produced them, and the cultural significance of different brands. They could be referred to as “breweriana historians” who are not only collectors but also keepers of the rich history surrounding the beer industry.
Canaticians
As beer can collecting combines elements of art, history, and craftsmanship, some collectors have coined the term “canaticians” to signify their appreciation for the aesthetic qualities of beer cans. These individuals appreciate the intricate designs, colors, and typography found on cans, and they often focus on the visual aspect of their collections. For them, collecting beer cans is a creative and visually stimulating endeavor.
Can Questers
For those collectors who enjoy the thrill of the hunt, the term “can questers” aptly describes their adventurous spirit. These enthusiasts love the challenge of searching far and wide for unique and rare beer cans. Each acquisition becomes a quest, and the ultimate goal is to complete a particular set, find elusive cans, or add a highly sought-after can to their collection. They find joy in the journey of discovery and the stories behind each can they acquire.
Concluding Thoughts
As you can see, beer can collectors are known by various names depending on their preferences, affiliations, and approaches to the hobby. Whether you are a member of the BCCA, a breweriana collector, a beer can enthusiast, a can hound, a breweriana historian, a canatician, or a can quester, what truly matters is the passion and enjoyment you derive from this unique and fascinating pursuit. So, raise a glass to the diverse community of beer can collectors and the stories each can tells.
