History and Collectibility of Vintage Rainier Beer Patches from the 1970s and 1980s

The History of Rainier Beer and Its Iconic Patches

For those who grew up in the Pacific Northwest in the 1970s and 80s, Rainier Beer was a staple. The Seattle-based beer's iconic mountain logo and name paying homage to Mount Rainier made it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts and blue-collar workers alike. Rainier Beer's popularity also spawned a collectors' market for its patches, which became sought-after items in the 80s.

Rainier Brewing Company's Early Days

Rainier Brewing Company dates back to 1878 when founder John Clapp opened the Bay View Brewery just south of Seattle. After a series of owners, the brewery was renamed Rainier Brewing Company in 1911 with a new brewmaster, Emil Sick. Sick introduced the iconic Rainier "R" logo, featuring Mount Rainier. By Prohibition, Rainier was the biggest brewery in the Northwest. It survived by producing malt syrup, near beer, and soft drinks until beer production could legally resume in 1933.

Mid-20th Century Expansion

After Prohibition ended, Rainier Beer experienced steady growth, bolstered by Sick’s aggressive marketing campaigns. The beer advertised its connection to the rugged Pacific Northwest through taglines like “Mountain Fresh” and “Brewed with Pure Mountain Water.” Expanded distribution sent Rainier throughout the West Coast. By the 1970s, Rainier Brewing Company was the sixth largest brewery in America. Its brewery in Seattle covered over 20 acres and pumped out over 2 million barrels of beer annually.

Rainier's Popularity in the 70s and 80s

Rainier Beer peaked in popularity in the 1970s and 80s. Its smooth, easy-drinking lager was a bar staple and tailgating favorite. Cowboy-themed ads made Rainier “the beeriest beer” for Western weekend warriors. Its green bottles with the mountain logo were iconic. For Pacific Northwesterners, Rainier represented an independent regional pride during a time of growing national beer conglomerates. From loggers to city-dwellers, Rainier was the beer of the working class. A common bumper sticker reading “If It’s Not Rainier, We Don’t Have It” expressed its popularity.

The Rise of Collectible Rainier Patches

During the height of its popularity in the 70s and 80s, Rainier Beer introduced a series of collectible patches. Featuring the R logo and outdoor themes, patches became must-have items. Patches were originally made available as prizes for sale goals at taverns featuring Rainier. Tavern owners would display patches rewarded for hitting monthly or weekly sales targets. Patrons took notice and demand grew. Rainier then manufactured patches for purchase, often producing limited runs of special designs.

The most collectible patches today typically include one or more of these traits:

• Vintage designs from the 70s and 80s
• Bright, distinctive, color schemes
• Depictions of Northwest landscapes or wildlife
• Limited edition or short production runs
• Novel shapes like cowboy hats, mountain peaks, etc.

Notable and Valuable Patch Examples

Here are some of the most iconic and valuable Rainier patches today:

• Square "Bottlecap" Patch - Features distinctive round "bottlecap" shape with mountain landscape. Short run produced in 1970s. Up to $75+ in value.
• "Sasquatch" Patch - Depicts the mythical Sasquatch/Bigfoot character. 1970s design still popular with collectors. $50+ value today.
• "Hops" Patch - Brilliant floral colors and design. Rare late 70s-early 80s limited edition. $100+ in value based on condition.
• "1981 Holiday Patch" - Christmas-themed with snowy mountain landscape. Extremely limited holiday design. Mint condition patches worth $150+ today.

Factors Influencing Patch Values

There are a few key factors that determine the collectibility and value of Rainier patches today:

• Age - Patches from the 1970s and 1980s are the most sought-after.
• Design - Unique or eye-catching artwork and colors increase value.
• Production Run - Limited edition and short-run patches are rarer.
• Condition - Patches in worn or damaged condition are worth less than mint condition examples.
• Provenance - Patches with documented ownership history and providence can be worth more.

The Legacy of Rainier Beer Patches

Although Rainier Beer's popularity declined in the 1990s following ownership changes, its patches remain iconic. For beer historians and collectors, they represent the golden age of Rainier's reign over Northwest beer. Rare patches in pristine condition can fetch high prices from collectors today.

When Rainier fans spot a vintage patch today, it often sparks nostalgic memories of summers on the lake, weekends in the mountains, and good times from the 70s and 80s. The patches provide a tangible connection to the Northwest identity and pride Rainier built over decades. They remain coveted symbols from a beloved regional brewery's heyday.

FAQs

Where were Rainier beer patches originally from?

Rainier patches were originally produced by the Rainier Brewing Company in Seattle. They were made available as prizes for meeting sales goals at bars featuring Rainier beer in the 1970s and 1980s.

How did the patches become collectible items?

As the patches grew in popularity through the 1970s and 80s, Rainier began manufacturing them for purchase as collectors' items. Limited edition and special design patches drove demand from collectors.

What makes a Rainier patch valuable?

Age, design, limited production run, condition, and provenance determine value. Patches from the 70s and 80s in pristine condition and with unique designs are most valuable.

What is the most valuable Rainier patch?

The 1981 Holiday Patch is one of the rarest and most valuable. The Christmas-themed limited edition patch can sell for $150+ in mint condition today.

Where can I find Rainier patches for my collection?

Vintage patches can be found on sites like eBay and Etsy, or through collectors groups. Patches may also appear at antique stores or flea markets in the Pacific Northwest.