Diet Mountain Dew, a sugar-free variant of the popular citrus-flavored soda, has a rich history of branding and packaging that has evolved significantly since its inception. This evolution has resulted in a diverse range of collectible items that appeal to both soda enthusiasts and collectors of vintage memorabilia. From logos and bottle designs to promotional campaigns and limited-edition packaging, the world of Diet Mountain Dew collectibles offers a fascinating glimpse into the brand's marketing strategies and its cultural impact.
Evolution of Diet Mountain Dew Logos and Packaging
The visual identity of Diet Mountain Dew has undergone several transformations over the years, each reflecting the changing trends in design and consumer preferences. These changes are particularly evident in the logos, bottle designs, and can designs, which serve as key identifiers for collectors.
1986-1987: The Early Years
The Diet Mountain Dew logo from 1986 to 1987 represents the brand's early visual identity. The 2-liter bottle design from the same period is also a notable collectible, showcasing the packaging styles of the era.
1987-1996: A New Look
A new logo was introduced in 1987 and remained in use until 1996. This period also saw the introduction of glass bottle designs, including 10 oz. and 16 oz. sizes. The 16 oz. slim bottle design is another variant from this era.
1991: The "Vintage" Era
In 1991, Diet Mountain Dew introduced a "Vintage" logo, which was featured on 16 oz. bottles and cans. This design offered a nostalgic nod to the brand's heritage. The "Vintage" logo was also available without the "The Original" banner.
Read also: The Hoxsey Diet
1996-1999: Transition Phase
The logo underwent another change from 1996 to 1999. During this time, Diet Mountain Dew introduced 16 oz. glass bottles, 20 oz. bottles, 2-liter bottles, and even a 3-liter bottle.
1999-2005: Millennium Branding
From 1999 to 2005, Diet Mountain Dew adopted a new logo and packaging design. This era saw the introduction of 16.9 oz. bottles, 20 oz. bottles, and 3-liter bottles. The 14 oz. can design is a unique collectible from this period.
2005-2009: "Tuned Up Taste"
During this period, Diet Mountain Dew introduced a "Tuned Up Taste" campaign, which was reflected in the 20 oz. and 16.9 oz. bottle designs. The 12 oz. bottle 12-pack from this era is also a notable collectible.
2009-2017: Modern Era
The official Diet Mountain Dew label art from 2009 to 2017 represents the brand's modern visual identity. This era saw the introduction of dome bottle designs, Sidekick bottle designs, and various promotional campaigns.
Collectible Diet Mountain Dew Packaging
Beyond logos, the packaging of Diet Mountain Dew has also evolved, offering collectors a wide array of items to seek out.
Read also: Walnut Keto Guide
Bottles
Diet Mountain Dew bottles have come in various sizes and designs, each with its own unique appeal.
Glass Bottles: The 10 oz., 16 oz., and 16 oz. slim glass bottles from the late 1980s and early 1990s are highly sought after by collectors. The 16 oz. glass bottle design from 1996 to 1999 is another notable item.
Plastic Bottles: Diet Mountain Dew's plastic bottles have also undergone several design changes. The 2-liter bottle designs from 1986 to 1987 and 1991 to 1996 are examples of early plastic bottle designs.
Special Edition Bottles: Diet Mountain Dew has released special edition bottles for various promotions, such as the "1 in 8 Wins a Free 20 oz." promotion and the Honor the Code promotion for Halo Reach.
Cans
Diet Mountain Dew cans have also been subject to numerous design changes, making them a popular collectible item.
Read also: Weight Loss with Low-FODMAP
Early Can Designs: Diet Mountain Dew's contemporary can design, along with the version featuring a "100% NutraSweet" label, are examples of early can designs.
Ribbed Cans: Diet Mountain Dew introduced cans with ribbed edges, which are a distinct variation. The ribbed cans also came in a version with a "100% NutraSweet" label.
Promotional Cans: Diet Mountain Dew has released promotional cans featuring various themes, such as skiing, snowboarding, and movie tie-ins. The Mega Mouth Slam can design from 1997 is another unique collectible.
Multi-Packs
Diet Mountain Dew multi-packs, such as 12-packs and 6-packs, are also collectible items. These packs often feature unique designs or promotional tie-ins. The 12-pack design promoting the movie Star Wars Trilogy Special Edition is a notable example.
Promotional Campaigns and Merchandise
Diet Mountain Dew has a long history of engaging in promotional campaigns and offering branded merchandise, which have become valuable collectibles.
Posters
Diet Mountain Dew has released several promotional posters over the years, featuring various themes and designs. The 1991 rollerblading-themed "Keep It Cool with Dew" poster, the 1991 cycling-themed "Do Diet Dew" poster, and the 1993 bungee jumping-themed poster are all examples of collectible promotional posters.
Cups
Diet Mountain Dew cups, both contemporary and vintage, are also collectible items. These cups often feature unique designs and branding.
Factors Influencing Collectibility
Several factors influence the collectibility of Diet Mountain Dew items, including:
Rarity: Limited edition items, such as promotional bottles and cans, are generally more valuable than mass-produced items.
Condition: The condition of the item is a crucial factor in determining its value. Items in mint condition are typically worth more than those with damage or wear.
Age: Older items, such as vintage bottles and cans, are often more valuable than newer items due to their scarcity and historical significance.
Demand: The demand for a particular item can also affect its value. Items that are highly sought after by collectors tend to be more expensive.
Tips for Collectors
For those interested in collecting Diet Mountain Dew memorabilia, here are some helpful tips:
Research: Before starting your collection, research the different types of Diet Mountain Dew collectibles available and their values.
Focus: Consider focusing on a specific area of interest, such as a particular era, bottle design, or promotional campaign.
Network: Connect with other collectors to share information, trade items, and learn about new finds.
Preserve: Properly store and preserve your collectibles to maintain their value and condition.
Diet Mountain Dew Through the Years: A Timeline of Designs and Promotions
To further illustrate the evolution of Diet Mountain Dew collectibles, here is a timeline of key designs and promotions:
1986-1987: Introduction of the first Diet Mountain Dew logo and 2-liter bottle design.
1987-1996: New logo introduced, along with glass bottle designs (10 oz. and 16 oz.).
1991: Launch of the "Vintage" logo and promotional posters featuring rollerblading and cycling themes.
1996-1999: Logo change and introduction of 16 oz. glass bottles, 20 oz. bottles, and 3-liter bottles.
1997: Release of the Mega Mouth Slam can design.
1999-2005: New logo and packaging design, including 16.9 oz. bottles and 14 oz. cans.
2005-2009: "Tuned Up Taste" campaign and release of 20 oz. and 16.9 oz. bottle designs.
2009-2017: Introduction of the modern logo and dome bottle designs, along with various promotional campaigns for video games and movies.
Diet Mountain Dew Collectibles in Pop Culture
Diet Mountain Dew collectibles have also made appearances in pop culture, further solidifying their status as cultural artifacts.
Movies and TV Shows: Diet Mountain Dew bottles and cans have been featured in various movies and TV shows, often as props or background elements.
Music Videos: Diet Mountain Dew branding has also appeared in music videos, showcasing the brand's association with popular culture.
Video Games: Diet Mountain Dew has partnered with several video game franchises, resulting in limited-edition packaging and promotional items that are highly sought after by collectors.
tags: #diet #mountain #dew #collectibles