| Document and Entity Information | Nov. 05, 2019 |
| Document And Entity Information [Line Items] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | CROWN HOLDINGS INC |
| Entity Address, State or Province | PA |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001219601 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 5, 2019 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | PA |
| Entity File Number | 0-50189 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 75-3099507 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 770 Township Line Road |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Yardley |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 19067 |
| City Area Code | 215 |
| Local Phone Number | 698-5100 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Common Stock [Member] | |
| Document And Entity Information [Line Items] | |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock $5.00 Par Value |
| Trading Symbol | CCK |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Seven And 38 Debentures Due 2026 [Member] | |
| Document And Entity Information [Line Items] | |
| Security 12b Title | 7 3/8% Debentures Due 2026 |
| Trading Symbol | CCK26 |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Seven And 12 Debentures Due 2096 [Member] | |
| Document And Entity Information [Line Items] | |
| Security 12b Title | 7 1/2% Debentures Due 2096 |
| Trading Symbol | CCK96 |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
