An acrylic copolymer designed for high-gloss, high-DOI (Distinctness of Image) waterborne metal and plastic coatings where an attractive appearance, adhesion and corrosion protection are important considerations. Robust colloidal stability accommodates a broad range of formulation types and formulation process techniques, providing the formulator with a versatile binder for a variety of applications including primers, topcoats and direct-to-metal (DTM) finishes. Applications that are well suited for coatings based on this product include transportation vehicles (rail car, truck chassis, etc.), various factory-applied items (boxes, tools, etc.), and structural steel.