A tin can recovered from devon island in the artic was investigated in order to identify and characterize the material, examine and interpret its structure, ascertain its composition, specify dimensions of the can and its coating, describe the construction and determine its method of manufacture. Examination procedures included: visual observation; chemical analysis (edx); macroscopic examination; microscopic examination; microhardness measurements. Results are given in the historicl context. It was concluded that the red painted can is made of sheets of tinned wrought iron and was of british origin. A brief history of the tin plate manufacture and canning industry is also included. Photomicrographs, tables, references.