If you grew up in the 1970s, 80s, or early 90s, you know the thrill of grabbing a soda or fast-food kids’ meal just for the collectible glass.
Indeed, Saturday morning cartoons, jingles you still hum, and fast-food promotions that made your eyes sparkle. That’s exactly the vibe we’re diving into today.
So welcome to the world of Old-School Drinking Glasses—each one a tiny time capsule full of memories.
Now, this isn’t your average gift guide. We’re talking about the kind of drinkware that sparks belly laughs. Friendly arguments over “who got the good glass,”. And pure nostalgia.
In fact, each glass in the Nostalgic Collection at CupofMood comes with a story, a trivia moment, and a smile-inducing blast from the past. A
And yes! I’m pairing each with a fun Put-A-Finger-Down trivia question and a little more trivia for your nostalgic pleasure.
So without further adieu, let’s jump right in!
The Magic of Old-School Drinking Glasses
These glasses aren’t just vessels; they’re memories you can hold. Think about the first time you saw a Looney Tunes character on a jelly jar or a soda glass. The bright colors, the excitement of the new cartoon, and that unmistakable thrill of being part of a promotion—it all comes rushing back when you hold one of these glasses today.
Of course, collectors know the feeling: holding a glass that came from a kid’s meal or soda promotion is like holding a piece of history.
That’s why these aren’t just drinkware. They’re snapshots of pop culture, advertising creativity, and the sweet, sometimes chaotic, joy of childhood.
So are you ready? Let’s relive the glory days one glass at a time.
Mae West Arby’s Glass – The Legendary Icon Returns
A shoutout to one of the original blonde bombshells, Mae West. Mae West’s sultry style and witty lines made her an unforgettable Hollywood star. In the 1970s, Arby’s released a promotional series featuring legendary entertainers, and Mae West topped the charts of memorable glass designs. Picture her in full feather boa glory, with her unmistakable smile, and suddenly your roast beef sandwich has a side of old Hollywood glam.
These glasses weren’t just about the image—they were conversation starters at the table, icebreakers at parties, and collectible treasures for your shelf. Many collectors remember racing to Arby’s to grab Mae West before they sold out. The glass is a nod to classic cinema and the kind of charisma only Mae West could bring.
Mae West Trivia
Put A Finger Down if you remember the name of the actress known for saying, “Why don’t you come up and see me sometime?”
The answer is Mae West, the legendary Hollywood actress, singer, and playwright whose bold wit and sultry charm made her an icon of the 1930s. Her signature line still echoes through film history and is instantly recognizable to fans of classic cinema.
Mae West was one of the highest-paid entertainers in the 1930s. True or false?
True! Mae West was not only a trailblazer in film and theater, but she was also one of the most financially successful entertainers of her era. Her popularity and unique persona allowed her to command enormous salaries, making her a household name and a symbol of glamour, wit, and independence during Hollywood’s Golden Age.
Which famous soda company banned her from their ads for being “too risqué”?
The answer is Pepsi-Cola. Mae West’s provocative style and playful innuendos were considered too daring for some brands, even during the relatively conservative 1930s. Pepsi felt her bold personality didn’t fit their family-friendly image at the time, which only added to her rebellious and unforgettable reputation.
What is the name of her famous autobiography?
Mae West’s autobiography is titled “Goodness Had Nothing to Do With It”. Published in 1959, the book is a candid and humorous look at her life, career, and the scandalous roles that made her famous. It offers fans a peek behind the scenes of Hollywood’s Golden Age and the woman who unapologetically lived life on her own terms.
Learn more about Mae West’s legacy here: Turner Classic Movies.
7UP Uncola Glass – The Wild 1970s
Ah, the 7UP “Uncola” campaign—groovy, smooth, and unforgettable. Geoffrey Holder, the tall, deep-voiced man who became the face of the Uncola commercials, brought charisma and theatrical flair to soda advertising in the 70s. This upside-down glass mimics the playful, upside-down energy of the campaign itself. Holding it is like reliving a funky, neon-filled summer of your youth.
Every sip is a reminder of soda fountains, bright patterns, and the thrill of being part of an era where a commercial could be a cultural event. And yes, collectors still chase these glasses for their bold colors and iconic design.
7UP Uncola Trivia
Put A Finger Down if you remember the name of the tall, deep-voiced man from the Uncola commercials.
The answer is Geoffrey Holder, the multi-talented actor, dancer, and singer whose deep, smooth voice became iconic in the 1970s Uncola campaign. Holder’s commanding presence and unique style helped make these commercials unforgettable, and many still recall his voice delivering the tagline, “The Uncola.” His contribution added a touch of elegance and flair to the funky, fun advertising era.
What year did the first “Uncola” commercial air?
The first 7UP “Uncola” commercial aired in 1967, marking the beginning of a bold marketing campaign that set 7UP apart from other sodas. The campaign cleverly positioned 7UP as different from cola drinks, appealing to the growing youth culture and the countercultural vibe of the late 1960s and early 1970s. This approach helped 7UP build a lasting connection with consumers who wanted something “different” and memorable.
Which citrus fruit was famously compared to “the Uncola nut” in the campaign?
The answer is the lemon-lime, the signature flavor combination of 7UP. Advertisers often described the soda as “the Uncola nut,” highlighting its crisp, refreshing taste that set it apart from cola drinks. The lemon-lime flavor became a defining characteristic of 7UP and remains a nostalgic reminder of the era when soda commercials were bold, colorful, and full of personality.
Explore 7UP history here: 7UP Official Site.
B.C. Comic Ice Age Glass – Hilarious Prehistoric Fun
The B.C. comic strip captured caveman life with clever humor and timeless wit. The 1981 Arby’s B.C. glass collection brought these prehistoric pals right into your hands. You could almost hear the comic strip’s one-liners echoing through the room as you sipped.
Collectors reminisce about grabbing these at Arby’s, sometimes debating over which character or panel was the funniest. These glasses are perfect for comic lovers, vintage collectors, and anyone who loves a good, laugh-out-loud throwback.
B.C. Comic Trivia
Put A Finger Down if you remember the name of the comic strip this character is from.
The answer is the B.C. Comic. This beloved comic strip, set in prehistoric times, humorously explored the lives of cavemen and their quirky adventures. Its simple yet clever humor made it a staple in newspapers, and many adults today fondly remember reading it as kids while enjoying Saturday morning breakfast or lunch.
Who created the B.C. comic strip?
The B.C. comic strip was created by Johnny Hart, an American cartoonist known for his sharp wit and ability to craft relatable humor in a prehistoric setting. Hart’s work resonated across generations, and his characters became instantly recognizable for their distinctive appearances and clever one-liners.
What year did the strip first appear in newspapers?
The comic strip first appeared in 1958, quickly capturing the imaginations of readers nationwide. Over the decades, B.C. became a cultural touchstone, with its prehistoric humor inspiring countless references in television, advertising, and even collectible merchandise like the Arby’s Ice Age glass.
Which character is known for inventing “modern ideas” thousands of years early?
The answer is Thor, the inventive caveman who often devised early versions of modern-day concepts, from wheels to simple tools. His clever antics and imaginative inventions made him a fan favorite, and seeing him on the B.C. Ice Age glass brings back the charm and humor of reading the comics in their original newspaper format.
Learn more about the comic’s legacy here: Comics Kingdom.
Elsie the Cow Bi-Centennial Glass – A Patriotic Throwback
You just might be an oldhead if you remember Elsie the Cow. In fact, Elsie graced milk cartons, advertisements, and children’s hearts alike.
The 1976 Bi-Centennial glass celebrates both Elsie and the 200th anniversary of the United States. Holding it feels like flipping back to a time when patriotism was colorful, wholesome, and shared over a glass of cold milk.
Collectors love the detail—Elsie in red, white, and blue, standing proud. It’s not just a glass; it’s a piece of Americana that sparks conversations and fond memories.
Elsie Trivia
Put A Finger Down if you remember the name of this famous cow.
The answer is Elsie The Cow! Elsie became the friendly face of Borden Dairy, appearing in commercials, advertisements, and promotional items. She quickly became a beloved symbol of wholesome dairy goodness, making her instantly recognizable to generations of consumers.
Which company created Elsie the Cow?
Elsie was created by Borden Dairy Company, one of America’s most well-known dairy producers. Borden used Elsie as a mascot to promote milk, cheese, and other dairy products, turning her into an enduring icon of the mid-20th century.
What year did Elsie first appear as the brand mascot?
Elsie made her debut as Borden’s mascot in 1936, and over the decades she became a staple of advertising campaigns, representing purity, quality, and a friendly personality that families could trust.
Which World’s Fair made her a national celebrity?
Elsie gained widespread national fame at the 1939 New York World’s Fair, where she was featured as part of Borden’s exhibit. Her appearances at the fair helped cement her status as one of the most recognizable and loved advertising mascots in American history.
Learn more about Elsie here: Borden Dairy.
Porky & Petunia Pig Glass – Classic Looney Tunes
Playful Porky Pig Trivia
Put A Finger Down if you remember the name of this Looney Tunes character.
The answer is Porky Pig! Recognizable by his stutter and sweet, innocent personality, Porky became an iconic cartoon character who brought laughter to kids and adults alike. His signature little bow tie and round belly made him instantly memorable, and he remains one of the most beloved stars in the Looney Tunes universe.
What year did Porky Pig first appear?
Porky Pig made his debut in 1935 in the cartoon I Haven’t Got a Hat. From that moment, he quickly became a cornerstone of Warner Bros. animation, charming audiences with his comedic timing, lovable stammer, and timeless appeal.
Which other Looney Tunes star did Porky often pair up with?
Porky Pig frequently appeared alongside Daffy Duck, creating some of the most memorable comedic duos in animation history. Their contrasting personalities—Porky’s sweet, cautious demeanor versus Daffy’s wild, over-the-top antics—made their pairings a recipe for hilarity.
What phrase did Porky originally say at the end of cartoons?
Porky famously said, “Th-th-th-that’s all, folks!” at the conclusion of many cartoons. This simple, stuttering farewell became his trademark, signaling the end of the cartoon while leaving audiences smiling and eagerly anticipating the next adventure.
Looney Tunes info here: Warner Bros.
Foghorn Leghorn Jelly Jar – Loud & Hilarious
Funny Foghorn Leghorn Trivia
Put A Finger Down if you remember the name of this famous Looney Tunes rooster.
The answer is Foghorn Leghorn! Known for his loud, boisterous personality and Southern drawl, Foghorn is one of the most unforgettable characters in the Looney Tunes lineup. His over-the-top confidence, endless schemes, and hilarious catchphrases like “I say, I say, boy!” have made him a timeless favorite for cartoon lovers of all ages.
Which character does Foghorn constantly try to outsmart?
Foghorn Leghorn frequently tries to outsmart the Barnyard Dog, often engaging in elaborate pranks and schemes. Their playful rivalry is a classic example of cartoon slapstick humor, with Foghorn always thinking he’s one step ahead, only for the dog to turn the tables in clever ways.
What year did he make his cartoon debut?
Foghorn Leghorn first strutted onto screens in 1946, in the cartoon Walky Talky Hawky. From that debut, his loud voice and exaggerated antics quickly became a staple of Looney Tunes comedy, cementing him as a beloved character for generations.
What real-life comedian inspired his voice?
Foghorn’s distinctive, booming voice and Southern drawl were inspired by Senator Claghorn, a radio character portrayed by Kenny Delmar. This inspiration gave Foghorn his charmingly overconfident personality, making him instantly recognizable and endlessly quotable.
Sir Shake-A-Lot Burger King Glass – Fantasy Fun
Sensational Sir Shake-A-Lot Trivia
Put A Finger Down if you remember the name of this Burger King character.
The answer is Sir Shake-A-Lot! This whimsical character from the 1979 Burger King collectible glass series was part of the “Burger King Kingdom” fantasy theme. Sir Shake-A-Lot was known for his playful antics and charming personality, making him a favorite among kids and collectors alike.
Which character ruled the Burger King Kingdom?
The Burger King Kingdom was ruled by the Burger King himself, a fun and friendly monarch who presided over the castle-themed fast-food kingdom. The series of glasses and ads brought this imaginative world to life, turning a simple meal into a storybook adventure.
What villain threatened the kingdom in the ad series?
The main villain was the Burger Thing, a mischievous character whose schemes always threatened the peace of the Burger King Kingdom. These storylines added excitement to the promotion, making each glass a collectible piece of storytelling from the golden era of fast-food marketing.
What storybook theme inspired this campaign?
The entire campaign was inspired by medieval fantasy and classic storybook tales, complete with knights, castles, and whimsical adventures. This creative theme gave children a sense of entering a fairy-tale world with their meals, making Sir Shake-A-Lot and the other characters unforgettable parts of childhood.
Learn more about BK’s history here: Burger King.
Captain Crook McDonaldland Glass – Pirate Fun
The lovable, slightly suspicious pirate of McDonaldland, Captain Crook tried to protect fishy sandwiches while tangling with the Hamburglar. This glass brings back memories of bright playgrounds, cartoon adventures, and childhood mischief.
Captain Crook Trivia
Put A Finger Down if you remember the name of this McDonald’s character.
The answer is Captain Crook! This lovable pirate from McDonaldland was known for his slightly mischievous antics and his quest to steal hamburgers. He became a memorable part of McDonald’s marketing in the 1970s and ’80s, delighting kids who followed the adventures of McDonaldland characters.
Which McDonaldland character did Captain Crook feud with?
Captain Crook often feuded with the Hamburglar, another iconic McDonaldland character. While the Hamburglar was notorious for his burger-stealing ways, Captain Crook’s plots and rivalries added extra fun and storytelling to McDonald’s promotions.
What famous sandwich did he try to protect?
Captain Crook’s main obsession was the Filet-O-Fish sandwich, which he tried to keep for himself or sneak away from others. This quirky focus made him stand out among the other McDonaldland characters and gave kids a memorable narrative alongside their Happy Meal.
Which decade did he retire from advertising?
Captain Crook largely retired from McDonaldland advertising in the 1990s, as McDonald’s shifted marketing strategies and introduced new characters. However, his legacy lives on as a beloved piece of childhood nostalgia, especially for collectors of vintage McDonaldland memorabilia.
More McDonaldland fun: McDonald’s Official Site.
Retro Chill Tiger With The Cool Cat Pepsi Glass
Are you old enough to remember Cool Cat? You know, the laid-back tiger of Looney Tunes, was Pepsi’s retro mascot in the 70s. This glass is vibrant, fun, and brings a sense of chilled-out nostalgia for those lazy afternoons spent with a soda in hand and cartoons on the screen.
Cool Cat Trivia
Put A Finger Down if you remember the name of this Looney Tunes character.
The answer is Cool Cat! Cool Cat was the smooth, laid-back tiger introduced by Looney Tunes in the late 1960s. Known for his calm demeanor and stylish personality, he became a fan favorite in the later years of classic cartoons, and his fun, approachable vibe made him a perfect mascot for promotional Pepsi glasses.
What year did Cool Cat first appear?
Cool Cat first appeared in 1967 in his own Looney Tunes cartoon. Designed to appeal to a new generation of viewers, his adventures often highlighted hip, “cool” behavior and jazzy, contemporary settings that distinguished him from earlier, more slapstick-focused characters.
What was his signature theme or catchphrase?
Cool Cat’s signature catchphrase was “Hey, daddy-o!”, reflecting his groovy, easygoing personality. This phrase, along with his smooth mannerisms and fashionable style, made him a memorable and iconic figure for fans of late-era Looney Tunes, and perfectly suited for Pepsi’s playful, youth-oriented marketing.
Which other characters appeared in the Pepsi glass series?
Alongside Cool Cat, the Pepsi glass series featured Speedy Gonzales, Porky Pig, and other classic Looney Tunes characters. Each glass highlighted a different personality, creating a collectible set that was both fun and nostalgic, and perfectly captured the colorful, character-driven style of 1970s promotional merchandise.
Speedy Gonzales Pepsi Glass – ¡Ándale, Ándale!
¡Ándale, Ándale! Speedy Gonzales, the fastest mouse in all of Mexico, sped across the screen leaving audiences laughing. Pepsi captured his spirit with this collector glass. Bright, bold, and full of personality, it’s a perfect nod to Looney Tunes and the fast-paced cartoons of childhood.
Speedy Gonzales Trivia
Put A Finger Down if you remember the name of this Looney Tunes character.
The answer is Speedy Gonzales! Known as “The Fastest Mouse in all Mexico,” Speedy Gonzales is beloved for his incredible speed, cleverness, and infectious energy. He has been entertaining audiences since his debut and remains an iconic Looney Tunes character, often outsmarting his foes with wit and charm.
What nickname is Speedy known by?
Speedy Gonzales is famously called “The Fastest Mouse in all Mexico.” This nickname perfectly captures his lightning-quick reflexes and the fun, mischievous adventures that have made him a lasting favorite among cartoon fans.
What color is his famous sombrero?
Speedy’s signature sombrero is bright yellow, making him instantly recognizable in every cartoon and promotional appearance. The hat, combined with his red neckerchief, adds to his cheerful and lively design, making him perfect for collectible items like Pepsi glasses.
Which character does he outsmart the most?
Speedy Gonzales most often outsmarts Sylvester the Cat, who is endlessly trying (and failing) to catch him. Their ongoing chase is a classic cartoon dynamic, showcasing Speedy’s cleverness and humor while creating memorable moments that fans still laugh about today.
Learn more here: Looney Tunes.
Join the CupofMood Club
By the way, if you love collecting Old-School Drinking Glasses, mugs, or any kind of retro drinkware. You definitely want to join the CupofMood Club.
In fact, as a member, you get first dibs on new arrivals, special perks, and fun drinkware drops that come in as often as every month.
Join here: CupofMood Club
Share Your Own Drinkware Story
Certainly collectors are some of the most fun people to talk to. If you’ve got your own collection—shot glasses, vintage mugs, beer steins, jelly jars, soda glasses, or anything else—I’d love to hear your story. Share it in Khadeeja’s Collector’s Corner and celebrate your nostalgia with others who get it.
Submit your story here: Khadeeja’s Collector’s Corner
The Final Sip
These Old-School Drinking Glasses are more than collectibles—they’re tiny time capsules. They bring back laughter, memories, and moments from the best decades to grow up in. You can find even more nostalgic cups, mugs and glasses in this blog, Why 90s McDonald’s Mugs Are the Hottest Trend! – CupofMood.
So if you’re ready to grab the perfect gift (or treat yourself). Explore the full Nostalgic Collection today and find a piece of your past waiting to shine again.
Shop the Nostalgic Collection Now
Until next time,
Namaste,
Khadeeja
