Back in Time Today
Once upon a time, a single dime could go a long way—especially at your neighborhood corner store. Before inflation and convenience apps took over, kids and adults alike could walk in with just ten cents and walk out with something sweet, salty, or useful.
Here’s a nostalgic look back at 15 things that used to cost a dime (or less!) at the corner store.
1. Candy Cigarettes
Candy cigarettes were once a staple in the hands of playful children, offering a whimsical imitation of adulthood. These sugary sticks came in boxes that closely mimicked real cigarette packs, complete with faux branding.
It was all about the thrill of emulating the grown-ups, without the health risks. These chalky treats provided endless amusement at a time when such playful mimicry was not frowned upon. Despite their un-PC nature by today’s standards, they were wildly popular among kids. For a mere dime, these sweets offered a taste of the ‘grown-up’ world, sparking imaginative play.
2. Bazooka Bubble Gum
Dive into the world of Bazooka Bubble Gum, a childhood favorite known for its tough chew and iconic comic-strip wrapper. Each piece was a tiny treasure, wrapped with a mini comic that could spark laughter or intrigue.
The gum itself required a jaw workout, but the reward was a burst of classic bubble-gum flavor. It was more than just gum; it was an experience wrapped in wax paper, promising both taste and entertainment. For just a dime, it was a small yet satisfying escape from the mundane.
3. Tootsie Rolls
Tootsie Rolls, with their unique chocolatey chew, were a beloved treat that often filled the pockets of eager kids. Their distinctive texture and flavor made them a staple in the candy world.
Imagine grasping a handful of these delights for just ten cents, each piece offering a chewy bite of nostalgia. The smaller ones were especially cherished, perfect for sharing or savoring individually. With their simple waxy wrapper, Tootsie Rolls were the epitome of accessible joy, a sweet reminder of simpler times.
4. Wax Bottles (Nik-L-Nips)
Wax Bottles, or Nik-L-Nips, were tiny vessels of sugary excitement. Shaped like miniature bottles, they were filled with brightly colored liquid that promised a sweet surprise.
Part of the fun was biting the top off and sipping the juice inside, with many savoring the wax itself by chewing it like gum. These treats were a visual delight, their vibrant hues standing out against the backdrop of a corner store shelf. At just a few cents apiece, they were an affordable indulgence, capturing the essence of youthful adventure and curiosity.
5. Pixy Stix
Pixy Stix were essentially flavored sugar packaged in a straw, and they were a source of endless delight for those seeking a quick sugar rush. Each slender tube contained a burst of tangy sweetness, easy to pour directly onto the tongue.
They came in a variety of flavors, ensuring that there was a choice for every sweet tooth. With several available for a dime, these sugary straws were both economical and exhilarating. The brightly colored packaging made them an irresistible choice, adding a splash of color to the candy counter.
6. Licorice Whips
Licorice Whips, whether in vibrant red or classic black, offered a chewy journey into the world of licorice lovers. These stretchy ropes of candy were an old-school favorite, each bite delivering a robust flavor experience. Kids would debate over which color reigned supreme, adding a playful rivalry to the mix.
Costing just a penny each, they were a budget-friendly way to satisfy sweet cravings. Their long, twisty form made them perfect for sharing or simply enjoying in solitude, offering a sensory adventure with every chew.
7. Double Bubble Gum
Double Bubble Gum, with its iconic pink hue and wrapped-in-comic charm, was a cornerstone of childhood indulgence. Known for its impressive bubble-blowing capabilities, this gum was a playground favorite.
Each chunky piece promised a sugary adventure, complete with a comic strip that added a dash of humor. The challenge of creating the biggest bubble was a rite of passage among friends, often resulting in sticky mishaps. For just a dime, these gum pieces were a ticket to playful escapism, blending taste with tactile fun.
8. Mary Janes
Mary Janes offered a delightful blend of molasses and peanut butter, wrapped in nostalgic yellow wax paper. These chewy treats were a beloved part of the candy landscape, often found in bulk bins at ten for a dime. Their distinctive flavor profile was both comforting and unique, appealing to those with a penchant for classic tastes.
Each piece was a pocket-sized indulgence, perfect for a quick sweet fix. Their old-fashioned charm and satisfying chew made them a staple for anyone seeking a taste of yesteryears.
9. Jujubes and Jujyfruits
Jujubes and Jujyfruits were the chewy, sometimes stubborn candies that tested both patience and dental strength. Their tiny, fruit-flavored forms were known for sticking to teeth, yet their vibrant colors and flavors kept fans coming back.
A small box could be yours for just ten cents, making them an affordable treat to savor slowly. These candies offered a sensory journey, from the tactile challenge of chewy bits to the burst of fruity flavor. They were a staple in the candy aisle, providing nostalgia and flavor in every bite.
10. Plastic Army Men
Before the era of sophisticated action figures, Plastic Army Men marched into the hearts of young strategists everywhere. These tiny green soldiers, crafted with care and detail, were ready for backyard battles and imaginative campaigns. For just a dime, you could acquire a small battalion, each figure poised for action.
Their versatility in play was unmatched, offering endless scenarios and heroic tales. Positioned in various stances, they became the generals and foot soldiers in elaborate playtime wars, a testament to the power of imagination.
11. Marbles
Marbles, with their swirling colors and smooth surfaces, were the treasure of many childhood collections. A small bag, often costing just a dime, could hold a rainbow of these glass gems, complete with a few prized ‘shooters.’
The game of marbles was a social affair, teaching strategy and precision. Each marble was unique, its colorful pattern mesmerizing to young eyes. Whether for play or collection, marbles were a versatile and cherished part of childhood, making them a timeless addition to any corner store purchase list.
12. Cracker Jack
Cracker Jack, with its caramel-coated popcorn and peanuts, was a snack staple that promised more than just flavor. Each box came with a surprise toy inside, adding an element of excitement to every purchase.
Priced at a dime, it offered both a savory treat and a playful mystery. The iconic red, white, and blue packaging became a symbol of nostalgia, evoking memories of simpler times. Cracker Jack was more than just a snack; it was an experience that combined taste, anticipation, and joy in a single package.
13. Stick Pretzels
Stick Pretzels were the epitome of simplicity and satisfaction, offering a salty crunch that pleased the palate. Sold in paper sacks or loose from a jar, they were a staple for those seeking a savory snack. Each pretzel stick was a testament to the beauty of straightforward flavors, providing a satisfying crunch with every bite.
With a dime, you could secure a generous handful, perfect for munching on the go. They served as a reminder that sometimes, the simplest pleasures are the most enduring.
14. Lemonheads and Jawbreakers
Lemonheads and Jawbreakers were the hard candies that tested patience and endurance. Their robust, long-lasting flavors made them a favorite among those who enjoyed sweets that could be savored. With a dime, you could acquire a small paper bag full, each candy promising a lengthy, flavorful journey.
The contrast between the tartness of Lemonheads and the sweetness of Jawbreakers made them a dynamic duo. These candies offered a sensory experience, with their vibrant colors and bold flavors capturing the essence of youthful indulgence.
15. Comic Books (the really old ones)
Comic Books, in their early days, were portals to fantastical worlds, brimming with adventure and heroics. Priced at just ten cents, these vividly illustrated pages offered a rich tapestry of storytelling. Each book was a window into new adventures, featuring beloved characters and daring escapades.
The vibrant covers and engaging plots made them irresistible to young readers, sparking imagination and excitement. These early comics were more than just stories; they were cultural artifacts, reflecting the hopes and dreams of their time.