Old Gold Cigarettes: A Journey Through Time

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## Introduction

The world of cigarettes is vast and diverse, with numerous brands that have made their mark throughout history. One such brand is Old Gold, an American cigarette brand that has captivated smokers for nearly a century. In this article, we will take a deep dive into the fascinating history, advertising campaigns, controversies, and popular culture references surrounding Old Gold cigarettes. Join us on this journey through time as we explore the rise and impact of this iconic brand.

History

Old Gold cigarettes were first introduced in 1926 by the Lorillard Tobacco Company. From the moment they hit the market, Old Gold became one of Lorillard’s star products. The brand quickly gained popularity, thanks in part to a clever advertising campaign by Lennen & Mitchell, which featured exuberant flappers and the catchy slogan “Not a cough in a carload.” By 1930, Old Gold had captured 7% of the market, cementing its place in American cigarette history.

Throughout the 1930s, Lennen & Mitchell continued to build the Old Gold brand through radio advertisements targeting young people. The brand’s popularity soared, and in 1941, the advertising account was transferred to J. Walter Thompson Co., which introduced the slogan “Something new has been added.” This marked the beginning of a new era for Old Gold as it ventured into television advertising in the 1950s.

Advertising

Old Gold’s advertising campaigns played a significant role in shaping its brand image and attracting a loyal customer base. From poster and magazine ads to television commercials, Lorillard spared no expense in promoting Old Gold cigarettes. One notable advertising campaign in the 1950s featured Halloween-themed ads that downplayed the health risks associated with smoking. The ads claimed that Old Gold cigarettes were a “treat instead of a treatment,” attempting to refute the growing concerns about smoking’s impact on health.

Television played a crucial role in Old Gold’s advertising strategy, with memorable commercials featuring dancing cigarette packages and catchy jingles. These commercials left a lasting impression on viewers and contributed to the brand’s popularity. In fact, Old Gold made appearances in popular TV shows like Mad Men, further solidifying its place in popular culture.

Controversy

No brand is without its controversies, and Old Gold cigarettes had its fair share. One notable controversy involved a claim made by Lorillard in Reader’s Digest that Old Gold cigarettes were lower in nicotine and throat-irritating tars and resins compared to other leading brands. The Federal Trade Commission filed a complaint against Lorillard, stating that these health claims were unsubstantiated and misleading.

Despite this controversy, Old Gold cigarettes continued to be a popular choice among smokers. The brand weathered the storm and remained a staple in the tobacco industry.

Popular Culture

Old Gold cigarettes left an indelible mark on popular culture, making appearances in various forms of media. One notable example is its presence in the television series Mad Men, where the character Don Draper is seen smoking Old Gold Straights. This portrayal of Old Gold in a popular TV show further solidified its status as an iconic brand.

Cigarette Camp

During World War II, Old Gold became part of American Army camps established near Le Havre, France. These camps were named after various American cigarette brands as a security measure and to provide a sense of familiarity to troops heading into battle. Old Gold’s association with the military and its presence in these camps became a part of its rich history.

Conclusion

Old Gold cigarettes have stood the test of time, captivating smokers with their distinctive flavor and iconic branding. From a humble beginning in the 1920s to becoming a household name, Old Gold has left an indelible mark on the tobacco industry. Its advertising campaigns, controversies, and cultural references have contributed to its enduring legacy. As we reflect on the journey of Old Gold cigarettes, we appreciate the brand’s impact and its place in the annals of smoking history.

Additional Information:

Old Gold’s advertising campaigns in the 1950s challenged the growing concerns about smoking and health.
The brand made appearances in popular TV shows like Mad Men, further solidifying its place in popular culture.
Old Gold’s association with the military during World War II added to its rich history.

Tone of Voice: Informative, engaging