Illini Beer Can Value Guide

This 12 oz aluminum collectible was produced by the Great Lakes Brewing Company of Fort Wayne to commemorate the University of Illinois' historic 1983 football season. It is highly prized by sports memorabilia collectors for its depiction of the now-retired Chief Illiniwek logo and the complete 1983 season schedule.

What affects the value of Illini Beer Can?

• Physical condition of the aluminum, specifically looking for the absence of dents, scratches, or fading in the orange and blue ink.
• The presence of the original pull tab or whether the can was bottom-opened to preserve the top display.
• The historical significance of the 1983 Rose Bowl season which drives demand among University of Illinois alumni.
• The scarcity of the can in the current market, with typical values ranging between $15.00 and $16.50.

How to Identify Illini Beer Can?

• Verify the manufacturer's mark for Great Lakes Brewing Company, Fort Wayne, Indiana, on the side panel.
• Check for the presence of the full 1983 University of Illinois football schedule printed on the reverse side.
• Confirm the 12 oz aluminum construction featuring the orange and blue Fighting Illini color scheme.
• Look for the specific retired Chief Illiniwek logo which distinguishes this 1983 commemorative edition.

History of Illini Beer Can

Produced in 1983 by the Great Lakes Brewing Company of Fort Wayne, Indiana, this commemorative beer was released to celebrate the University of Illinois Fighting Illini football team's successful season, which culminated in a Rose Bowl appearance. It features the now-retired Chief Illiniwek logo and a full season schedule printed on the reverse side. These cans have become sought-after items for sports memorabilia collectors and University of Illinois alumni.