How to Find out How Much a Beer Can Collection Is Worth

Wipe the beer cans gently with a clean, damp cloth. Don't use any cleaners, which could compromise the can's condition and print.

Familiarize yourself with the nuances of beer cans, which are well-documented in websites dedicated to the hobby. A sampling identified by the Brewery Collectibles Club of America includes the pioneering flat-top can (which weren't perforated), the cone top (which debuted in 1935) and the pull-tab can (introduced in 1963).

Sort the cans by common attributes, such as shapes (cone-top or flat-top) or \ the country of origin. Create an inventory list that identifies the attributes of each item, such as its condition, manufacturer and weight. Take photos of each can. Use lighting that makes the print visible and glare-free. If your camera is low-resolution, make notes of details the photo images can't capture.

Take the collection to an antique shop or flea-market dealer to have it appraised---and possibly liquidated immediately. Alternatively, some websites invite inquiries from collectors who are prepared with quality digital images and item descriptions. While some flat- and cone-top cans may fetch up to $500, rare ones could be worth thousands, according to e-beercans.com, a site created by a collector who started in 1979. A few cans featured on Breweriana, an online collector's forum since 1995, are valued beyond $5,000.