McDonald's Waxed Paper Cup, 1964-1975

01

Artifact Overview

In 1948, the McDonald brothers transformed their Southern California drive-in into the fast food concept that we know today. The "M" logo on this waxed beverage cup, inspired by the famous golden arches of the restaurant, was an early version of the logo that would become McDonald's standard. Today, this logo is recognized throughout the world.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Cup

Date Made

1964-1975

Creator Notes

Made by Sweetheart Cup Division of Maryland Cup Corporation, Baltimore, Maryland for McDonald's Corporation.

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

88.93.4

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of McDonald's Corporation.

Material

Paper (Fiber product)
Wax

Color

White (Color)
Red
Yellow (Color)
Navy blue

Dimensions

Height: 5.5 in
Diameter: 5.25 in (at widest)

Inscriptions

On bottom inner ridge: AB R 16. BY SWEETHEART CUP DIV. OF MARYLAND CUP CORP., BALTIMORE MD. U.S.A. 5-42846
McDonald's Waxed Paper Cup, 1964-1975