Coca-Cola Signs - A Look at the Vintage Advertising in Toronto

April 24, 2022 - A close-up of the old "Drink Coca-Cola" sign in the window of the Kingston Road Flower Market in Toronto's Upper Beaches neighbourhood — April 24, 2022 – A close-up of the old “Drink Coca-Cola” sign in the window of the Kingston Road Flower Market in Toronto’s Upper Beaches neighbourhood

Vintage red and white Coca-Cola signs can be found throughout the streets of Toronto, adding a nostalgic charm to the city. From the weathered ghost signs that tell stories of the past on the sides of old buildings to the vibrant signage on convenience stores.

Coca-Cola History

Coca-Cola syrup was invented by Dr. John Stith Pemberton, a pharmacist in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1886. He took the syrup down the street to Jacobs’ Pharmacy, a popular soda fountain, to have it sampled for the first time. There, carbonated water was mixed with the syrup to create a beverage that was described as “delicious and refreshing.” It was sold for 5 cents a glass.

Frank Robinson, Dr. Pemberton’s partner and bookkeeper, proposed the name for the drink. Since the product’s original main ingredients were coca leaves and kola nuts, he thought that using two “C’s” would be appealing for advertising (as the “k” in kola sounds like a “c”). He also wrote the name in a flowing script that became the company’s trademark.

The Red & White Branding

June 2022 – The first Coca-Cola wall sign, painted by a syrup salesman in 1894, is located on the side of the Young Brothers Pharmacy building at 2 W Main St in Cartersville, Georgia. It was restored in 1989 and authenticated in 1994 — June 2022 – The first Coca-Cola wall sign is located on the side of the Young Brothers Pharmacy building at 2 W Main St in Cartersville, Georgia (Google Maps)

In the late 1800s, Coca-Cola was delivered in barrels to drug stores throughout the United States, similar to how alcohol was transported. During this time, alcoholic beverages were subject to taxes, so the Coca-Cola Company painted their barrels red to help customs and tax officials distinguish their product from those containing liquor. This red colour ultimately became their signature hue.

The first Coca-Cola wall sign was painted by a syrup salesman in 1894 on the side of the Young Brothers Pharmacy building in Cartersville, Georgia. It still exists today, having been restored in 1989 and authenticated in 1994.

The Contour Bottle

In 1915, the Coca-Cola Company challenged several bottle manufacturers to create a bottle that was so distinctive that “you would recognize it by feel in the dark.” Later that same year, the iconic contour-shaped bottle we still know today was patented. It was designed by employees of the Root Glass Company, including Alexander Samuelson, Chapman Root, T. Clyde Edwards, and Earl Dean, in Terre Haute, Indiana.

This bottle has had various nicknames, including the “hobble skirt,” which refers to a style of skirt popular in the 1910s that was so tapered at the knees that it made the wearer appear to hobble. It was also nicknamed the “Mae West.” The first use of the term “contour” was mentioned in a 1925 article in the French magazine La Londe.

Did You Know?

June 27, 1962 - A billboard that reads "Enjoy a Float with Coke - Coca-Cola with Ice Cream" — June 27, 1962 – A billboard that reads “Enjoy a Float with Coke – Coca-Cola with Ice Cream” (City of Toronto Archives, E.L. Ruddy Company fonds, Fonds 1488, Series 1230, Item 9682 – Arthur Austerberry photographer)

Coca-Cola was first served in Canada in 1896.
In 1905, Coca-Cola received permission to install a steam power plant at 65 Bellwoods Ave in Toronto. This facility became the first bottling plant located outside of the United States and began operations the following year.
In the June 23, 1906 edition of The Toronto Daily Star, Coca-Cola published a statement/ad quoting chemist Dr. Mims, who remarked, “After careful examination, I find that the product does not contain alcohol, cocaine, or any other harmful alkaloids.” He also noted that the amount of caffeine in a single bottle of Coca-Cola is less than that found in a strong cup of coffee.
The beverage company currently employs over 5,700 people across more than 50 facilities throughout Canada.

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Coca-Cola Photos

Circa 1906 - A billboard displays the slogan "Drink Coca-Cola, Relieves Fatigue." In the lower-left corner, also notice the Grand Opera House advertising for "The Woman in the Case," playing at the theatre — Circa 1906 – A billboard displays the slogan “Drink Coca-Cola, Relieves Fatigue.” In the lower-left corner, also notice the Grand Opera House advertising for “The Woman in the Case,” playing at the theatre (City of Toronto Archives, E.L. Ruddy Company fonds, Fonds 1488, Series 1231, File 4, Item 108)

December 21, 2019 – The well-preserved "Drink Coca-Cola Bell's Food Mkt - Meats Vegetables Italian Foods" ghost sign located on the west-facing wall of 1081 College St, east of Dufferin St in the College West neighbourhood. According to the 1916 Toronto City Directory, Frederick Bell opened a grocery and meat market in this storefront, which operated under Bell's Food Market until the early 1960s — December 21, 2019 – The well-preserved “Drink Coca-Cola Bell’s Food Mkt – Meats Vegetables Italian Foods” ghost sign located on the west-facing wall of 1081 College St, east of Dufferin St in the College West neighbourhood. According to the 1916 Toronto City Directory, Frederick Bell opened a grocery and meat market in this storefront, which operated under Bell’s Food Market until the early 1960s

Circa 1907 – A Coca-Cola billboard at the former Hanlan's Point Stadium on Toronto Island. This photo was taken from first base, looking towards second base and the outfield. In the background, you can see the roller coaster from the former Hanlan's Point Amusement Park — Circa 1907 – A Coca-Cola billboard at the former Hanlan’s Point Stadium on Toronto Island. This photo was taken from first base, looking towards second base and the outfield. In the background, you can see the roller coaster from the former Hanlan’s Point Amusement Park (City of Toronto Archives, E.L. Ruddy Company fonds, Fonds 1488, Series 1231, File 4, Item 146)

December 28, 2019 – Looking southeast towards 541-543 Queen St W, just west of Augusta St, in Toronto. The four-storey building, constructed in the 19th century, showcases two ghost signs. The most notable one is an ad for H.J. Lavelle Wines, which features a Coca-Cola logo. The other ghost sign displays only the letters “PR,” located to the left of the Coca-Cola logo

1912 – Looking northeast at the intersection of Toronto St and Adelaide St E in the St Lawrence neighbourhood of Toronto. There are several notable features in this photo. First, the Coca-Cola sign on the side of the building features the slogan "Good To The Last Drop." Additionally, you can see the renovated entrance to the underground public washroom that used to be located in the middle of Toronto St, on the south side of Adelaide St E. Finally, a Toronto Street sign is attached to the existing building on the right — 1912 – Looking northeast at the intersection of Toronto St and Adelaide St E in the St Lawrence neighbourhood of Toronto. There are several notable features in this photo. First, the Coca-Cola sign on the side of the building features the slogan “Good To The Last Drop.” Additionally, you can see the renovated entrance to the underground public washroom that used to be located in the middle of Toronto St, on the south side of Adelaide St E. Finally, a Toronto Street sign is attached to the existing building on the right (City of Toronto Archives, Fonds 1231, Item 1657 – James Victor Salmon photographer)

1914 – A Coca-Cola billboard displays the slogan "Relieves Fatigue" in front of the Manufacturers' Building that was once located where the Better Living Centre stands today, between Ontario Dr and Prince Edward Island Cres at Exhibition Place — 1914 – A Coca-Cola billboard displays the slogan “Relieves Fatigue” in front of the Manufacturers’ Building that was once located where the Better Living Centre stands today, between Ontario Dr and Prince Edward Island Cres at Exhibition Place (City of Toronto Archives, E.L. Ruddy Company fonds, Fonds 1488, Series 1230, Item 1332)

February 25, 2024 - Coca-Cola signs in the windows of a former storefront on the south side of Dundas St E, west of Sherbourne St in the Garden District of Toronto — February 25, 2024 – Coca-Cola signs in the windows of a former storefront on the south side of Dundas St E, west of Sherbourne St in the Garden District of Toronto

February 15, 1954 - Looking northeast towards the corner of Bay St and Wellesley St W in the Bay-Cloverhill neighbourhood of Toronto. The archived photo features the old Wellesley Public School with a Coca-Cola sign visible in the background on the right (Toronto Public Library Pictures-R-3410 - James Victor Salmon photographer) — February 15, 1954 – Looking northeast towards the corner of Bay St and Wellesley St W in the Bay-Cloverhill neighbourhood of Toronto. The archived photo features the old Wellesley Public School with a Coca-Cola sign visible in the background on the right (Toronto Public Library Pictures-R-3410 – James Victor Salmon photographer)

July 19, 1917 – Looking east on Dundas St W, between Brock Ave and Sheridan Ave in the Brockton Village neighbourhood, during track reconstruction. On the left, notice the Coca-Cola sign, which features the slogan "Relieves Fatigue," along with the billboard for Loew's Yonge Street Theatre, now known as the Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre Centre — July 19, 1917 – Looking east on Dundas St W, between Brock Ave and Sheridan Ave in the Brockton Village neighbourhood, during track reconstruction. On the left, notice the Coca-Cola sign, which features the slogan “Relieves Fatigue,” along with the billboard for Loew’s Yonge Street Theatre, now known as the Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre Centre (City of Toronto Archives, Fonds 200, Series 372, Sub Series 58, Item 683 – Dept. of Public Works photographs)

September 23, 2025 – A Coca-Cola advertising sign displayed at Easy Living at 328 Broadview Ave, in the South Riverdale neighbourhood of Toronto

Between 1920 and 1924 - A painted Coca-Cola painted advertisement on the wall of a building occupied by T.F. Dove & Company Limited Real Estate, once located on Coxwell Ave, north of Dundas St E, in the Greenwood-Coxwell neighbourhood of Toronto — Between 1920 and 1924 – A painted Coca-Cola advertisement on the wall of a building occupied by T.F. Dove & Company Limited Real Estate, once located on Coxwell Ave, north of Dundas St E, in the Greenwood-Coxwell neighbourhood of Toronto (City of Toronto Archives, E.L. Ruddy Company fonds, Fonds 1488, Series 1230, Item 1906)

December 21, 2019 – The east-facing wall of 1345 Queen St W showcases several ghost signs, including two overlapping Coca-Cola logos. One logo says, “Delicious! Refreshing!” while the other reads, “Drink.” The additional text includes the words “Sovereign Perfumes,” “National” and “Sold Every”

Between 1920 and 1926 – The Coca-Cola and the Standard Fuel Company signs were at the northwest corner of Queen St W and Noble St, in the Parkdale neighbourhood of Toronto. Visible in the right foreground is the Emerson Drug Company Manufacturing Chemists building — Between 1920 and 1926 – The “Drink Coca-Cola in Bottles” and the Standard Fuel Company signs were at the northwest corner of Queen St W and Noble St, in the Parkdale neighbourhood of Toronto. Visible in the right foreground is the Emerson Drug Company Manufacturing Chemists building (City of Toronto Archives, E.L. Ruddy Company fonds, Fonds 1488, Series 1230, Item 2344)

Between 1920 and 1926 – A Coca-Cola advertisement is displayed on a building home to Steinberg Ladies Wear, located at 537-539 College St. The view is looking east on College St towards Palmerston Blvd in the Little Italy neighbourhood of Toronto. In the distance on the left, the tower is part of the College Street Baptist Church, which has since been converted into condos (City of Toronto Archives, E.L. Ruddy Company fonds, Fonds 1488, Series 1230, Item 2439)

May 7, 2022 – Looking southwest towards 873 St Clair Ave W, between Christie St and Oakwood Ave in the Regal Heights neighbourhood. The three-storey building features a Coca-Cola ghost sign painted sometime between 1972 and 1982

Between 1920 and 1926 – A Coca-Cola advertisement featuring the phrase "Drink Coca-Cola in Bottles" is displayed on a building at the northeast corner of Queen St W and Euclid Av in the Trinity-Bellwoods neighbourhood. Just above it is another sign for Danielson's Victrola Shop — Between 1920 and 1926 – A Coca-Cola advertisement featuring the phrase “Drink Coca-Cola in Bottles” is displayed on a building at the northeast corner of Queen St W and Euclid Av in the Trinity-Bellwoods neighbourhood. Just above it is another sign for Danielson’s Victrola Shop (City of Toronto Archives, E.L. Ruddy Company fonds, Fonds 1488, Series 1230, Item 2336)

A Coca-Cola advertising sign is displayed at the former Henry's Variety, located at 2787 Dundas St W, at the intersection with Indian Grove in Toronto's Junction neighbourhood. — A Coca-Cola advertising sign is displayed at the former Henry’s Variety, located at 2787 Dundas St W, at the intersection with Indian Grove in Toronto’s Junction neighbourhood.

Between 1920 and 1926 - Three billboards are located at the northeast corner of Queen St E and Coxwell Ave in the Greenwood-Coxwell neighbourhood of Toronto. One billboard is on the roof for White Brothers Clothiers, while the other two are on the side of a building for Ideal Bread and Coca-Cola — Between 1920 and 1926 – Three billboards are located at the northeast corner of Queen St E and Coxwell Ave in the Greenwood-Coxwell neighbourhood of Toronto. One billboard is on the roof for White Brothers Clothiers, while the other two are on the side of a building for Ideal Bread and Coca-Cola (City of Toronto Archives, E.L. Ruddy Company fonds, Fonds 1488, Series 1230, Item 2148)

July 3, 2021 - The storefronts at 1491-1495 Dundas St W, located west of Dufferin St in the Brockton Village neighbourhood, feature a beautiful vintage sign. Once home to the Dufferin Smoke Shop, this sign prominently displays two Coca-Cola buttons — July 3, 2021 – The storefronts at 1491-1495 Dundas St W, located west of Dufferin St in the Brockton Village neighbourhood, feature a beautiful vintage sign. Once home to the Dufferin Smoke Shop, this sign prominently displays two Coca-Cola buttons

Between 1920-1926 - Looking southeast along Queen St W towards Bay St, east of York St in downtown Toronto. In the distance on the right, there is a Coca-Cola billboard attached to the side of the Globe Theatre. In the left foreground, the Hotel Aberdeen Café is visible; it was once located at the northeast corner of Queen St W and Chestnut St, when the two streets intersected. The hotel and the block were demolished to make way for Nathan Phillips Square and Toronto City Hall — Between 1920-1926 – Looking southeast along Queen St W towards Bay St, east of York St in downtown Toronto. In the distance on the right, there is a Coca-Cola billboard attached to the side of the Globe Theatre. In the left foreground, the Hotel Aberdeen Café is visible; it was once located at the northeast corner of Queen St W and Chestnut St, when the two streets intersected. The hotel and the block were demolished to make way for Nathan Phillips Square and Toronto City Hall (City of Toronto Archives, E.L. Ruddy Company fonds, Fonds 1488, Series 1230, Item 2337)

Between 1920 and 1926 – A billboard with the phrase "Drink Coca-Cola Delicious and Refreshing" on St Clair Ave W — Between 1920 and 1926 – A billboard with the phrase “Drink Coca-Cola Delicious and Refreshing” on St Clair Ave W (City of Toronto Archives, E.L. Ruddy Company fonds, Fonds 1488, Series 1230, Item 2523)

August 16, 2025 – A Coca-Cola cooler at the CNE

October 3, 1928 – The grocery store, once at the southeast corner of Bay St and Edward St, featured several advertisements on the building, including Coca-Cola, Sellers Gough Fur Company, Christie's Sultanas cookies and Red Rose Tea. The tall building in the right background was the Hotel Ford — October 3, 1928 – The grocery store, once at the southeast corner of Bay St and Edward St, featured several advertisements on the building, including Coca-Cola, Sellers Gough Fur Company, Christie’s Sultanas cookies and Red Rose Tea. The tall building in the right background was the Hotel Ford (City of Toronto Archives, Fonds 200, Series 372, Sub Series 3, Item 732 – Dept. of Public Works, photographs)

April 24, 2022 – The Kingston Road Flower Market at the northwest corner of Scarborough Rd and Kingston Rd in the Upper Beaches neighbourhood, features four Coca-Cola buttons on its sign. The buttons were designed to appear like bottle caps — April 24, 2022 – The Kingston Road Flow e r Market at the northwest corner of Scarborough Rd and Kingston Rd in the Upper Beaches neighbourhood, features four Coca-Cola buttons on its sign. The buttons were designed to appear like bottle caps

April 24, 2022 - The colourful storefront at the Kingston Road Flower Market, on the northwest corner of Scarborough Rd, features vintage "Drink Coca-Cola" and "We Deliver" signs in its window — April 24, 2022 – The colourful storefront at the Kingston Road Flower Market, on the northwest corner of Scarborough Rd, features vintage “Drink Coca-Cola” and “We Deliver” signs in its window

1944 – Notice the Coca-Cola sign above the storefront entrance at the northeast corner of Bloor St W and Bartlett Ave in the Bloorcourt Village of Toronto. Also, note that there were once streetcar tracks along Bloor St (Toronto Public Library Pictures-R-4505)

Between 1935 and 1937 - Looking southeast on Gerrard St E, west of Greenwood Ave in the Leslieville neighbourhood. On the left, there are a few Coca-Cola signs. The first is a hanging sign at Walsh's Lunch Room, where burgers cost 5¢. The other two signs, one hanging and the other located above the restaurant, are from Clayton's Candies & Lunches. Additionally, the image shows the former Guild Theatre, which was located at 1275 Gerrard St E — Between 1935 and 1937 – Looking southeast on Gerrard St E, west of Greenwood Ave in the Leslieville neighbourhood. On the left, there are a few Coca-Cola signs. The first is a hanging sign at Walsh’s Lunch Room, where burgers cost 5¢. The other two signs, one hanging and the other located above the restaurant, are from Clayton’s Candies & Lunches. Additionally, the image shows the former Guild Theatre, which was located at 1275 Gerrard St E (City of Toronto Archives, E.L. Ruddy Company fonds, Fonds 1488, Series 1230, Item 1123)

Circa 1945 – A Good Hotel, once located at 572 Bay St, south of Dundas St W in downtown Toronto, is shown with a painted Coca-Cola sign on the building's south-facing side — Circa 1945 – A Good Hotel, once located at 572 Bay St, south of Dundas St W in downtown Toronto, is shown with a painted Coca-Cola sign on the building’s south-facing side (City of Toronto Archives, Alexandra Studio fonds, Fonds 1257, Series 1057, Item 523)

April 4, 2022 – Looking northwest towards the corner of Queen St E and Coady Ave in Toronto’s Leslieville neighbourhood. The building at 1146 Queen St E once featured a ghost sign with the words “Coca-Cola Coady Sweets.” The storefront was home to the confectionery shop from the mid-1920s until about 1959. Since 2018, the building has housed La Paella Restaurant. In 2025, the wall that once showcased the ghost sign was repainted, and today, the building features an eye-catching sign with the restaurant's name in vibrant yellow letters — April 4, 2022 – Looking northwest towards the corner of Queen St E and Coady Ave in Toronto’s Leslieville neighbourhood. The building at 1146 Queen St E once featured a ghost sign with the words “Coca-Cola Coady Sweets.” The storefront was home to the confectionery shop from the mid-1920s until about 1959. Since 2018, the building has housed La Paella Restaurant. In 2025, the wall that once showcased the ghost sign was repainted, and today, the building features an eye-catching sign with the restaurant’s name in vibrant yellow letters

November 21, 1947 – Coca-Cola signs on the storefront once at 236 Sumach St in Toronto's Regent Park neighbourhood. Also, notice the Orange Crush, Pepsi, Winchester Cigarettes and Black Cat Cigarette signs — November 21, 1947 – Coca-Cola signs on the storefront once at 236 Sumach St in Toronto’s Regent Park neighbourhood. Also, notice the Orange Crush, Pepsi, Winchester Cigarettes and Black Cat Cigarette signs (City of Toronto Archives, Fonds 200, Series 372, Sub Series 33, Item 958 – Dept. of Public Works photographs)

1950s – This photo features two references to Coca-Cola. The first is the delivery truck loaded with wooden beverage crates, shown on the left, and the second is the billboard on the right. The image was taken looking southeast at the corner of Bay St and Elm St in the Downtown Yonge area of Toronto. Also, notice the former hotels, the Village House directly at the corner and the Ford Hotel in the right background (City of Toronto Archives, Alexandra Studio fonds, Fonds 1257, Series 1057, Item 549)

May 23, 1952 – The storefront of J.C. Wright Grocer, once at the northwest corner of Jones Ave and Baird Ave in Toronto's Blake-Jones neighbourhood, featured signs for Coca-Cola, Pepsi-Cola, Canada Dry, Black Cat Cigarettes, Orange Crush, and Buckingham Cigarettes — May 23, 1952 – The storefront of J.C. Wright Grocer, once at the northwest corner of Jones Ave and Baird Ave in Toronto’s Blake-Jones neighbourhood, featured signs for Coca-Cola, Pepsi-Cola, Canada Dry, Black Cat Cigarettes, Orange Crush, and Buckingham Cigarettes (City of Toronto Archives, Fonds 200, Series 372, Sub Series 58, Item 2342 – Dept. of Public Works photographs)

June 8, 2024 – Looking southwest towards the Coca-Cola ghost sign at 1042 Pape St, north of Cosburn Ave in the Pape Village neighbourhood of Toronto

May 23, 1952 – The Coca-Cola sign at Jones Fish & Chips once on Jones Ave, south of Danforth Ave in the Blake-Jones neighbourhood, reads "Pause... Drink Coca-Cola Ice Cold." Notice the little dog that is barely visible in the lower left corner — May 23, 1952 – The Coca-Cola sign at Jones Fish & Chips once on Jones Ave, south of Danforth Ave in the Blake-Jones neighbourhood, reads “Pause… Drink Coca-Cola Ice Cold.” Notice the little dog that is barely visible in the lower left corner (City of Toronto Archives, Fonds 200, Series 372, Sub Series 58, Item 2343 – Dept. of Public Works photographs)

March 13, 2021 – The Coca-Cola sign at Betty's, formerly located at 240 King St E in the Old Town, St. Lawrence neighbourhood of Toronto, has since moved to 1301 Queen St E. The Coke sign is gone from the building — March 13, 2021 – The Coca-Cola sign at Betty’s, formerly located at 240 King St E in the Old Town, St. Lawrence neighbourhood of Toronto, has since moved to 1301 Queen St E. The Coke sign is gone from the building

May 23, 1952 – The numerous Coca-Cola signs at Harry Handler's store once on Jones Ave, south of Danforth Ave in Toronto's Blake-Jones neighbourhood — May 23, 1952 – The numerous Coca-Cola signs at Harry Handler’s store once on Jones Ave, south of Danforth Ave in Toronto’s Blake-Jones neighbourhood (City of Toronto Archives, Fonds 200, Series 372, Sub Series 58, Item 2351 – Dept. of Public Works photographs)

September 28, 2019 – Mac’s Cigar Store at 1627 Dundas St W in the Brockton Village neighbourhood of Toronto

1955 – Notice the "Have a Coca-Cola" and the "Model Fish & Chips WA-0121" signs on the building located on Yonge St, north of Carlton St in the Downtown Yonge area. The restaurant was located in one of the storefronts of that building — 1955 – Notice the “Have a Coca-Cola” and the “Model Fish & Chips WA-0121” signs on the building located on Yonge St, north of Carlton St in the Downtown Yonge area. The restaurant was located in one of the storefronts of that building (Toronto Public Library Pictures-R-4027 – James Victor Salmon photographer)

June 23, 2024 – Looking southwest towards the Coca-Cola ghost sign at 1254 Jane St and Weston Rd in the Mount Dennis neighbourhood of Toronto

1972 - Looking northeast towards the corner of Victoria St and Lombard St in the St Lawrence neighbourhood of Toronto. You can see the Coca-Cola advertisement storefront sign on Leon's Restaurant, along with a hanging Coca-Cola sign to the right at Maxie's Smoke Shop. A Pepsi-Cola truck is parked on Lombard St — 1972 – Looking northeast towards the corner of Victoria St and Lombard St in the St Lawrence neighbourhood of Toronto. You can see the Coca-Cola advertisement storefront sign on Leon’s Restaurant, along with a hanging Coca-Cola sign to the right at Maxie’s Smoke Shop. A Pepsi-Cola truck is parked on Lombard St (City of Toronto Archives, Toronto Planning Board fonds, Fonds 2032, Series 841, File 17, Item 26)

April 2, 1956 - Notice the Coca-Cola sign on the door of the former R.L. Roach Pharmacy entrance at the southeast corner of Church St and Carlton St, in the Garden District of Toronto — April 2, 1956 – Notice the Coca-Cola sign on the door of the former R.L. Roach Pharmacy entrance at the southeast corner of Church St and Carlton St, in the Garden District of Toronto (City of Toronto Archives, Gilbert A. Milne & Co., Ltd. fonds, Fonds 1653, Series 975, File 2247, Item 32729-1)

1959 – Coca-Cola, Pepsi, Old Chum Tobacco and Orange Crush signs are on the storefront of Ozard Cigar Store once on Avenue Rd, with Kinnear's Hardware next door in The Annex neighbourhood — 1959 – Coca-Cola, Pepsi, Old Chum Tobacco and Orange Crush signs are on the storefront of Ozard Cigar Store once on Avenue Rd, with Kinnear’s Hardware next door in The Annex neighbourhood (City of Toronto Archives, Fonds 220, Series 65, File 56, Item 138 – Alexandra Studio photographs)

1959 – Cooling off at the Coca-Cola booth at the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE Archives)

1960 - Looking northwest towards Tom's Smoke Shop once at 2170 Danforth Ave, east of Woodbine Ave, in the East Danforth neighbourhood of Toronto. The store featured several Coca-Cola signs, including one on the building's east side. Next door is the Danforth Mennonite Church — 1960 – Looking northwest towards Tom’s Smoke Shop once at 2170 Danforth Ave, east of Woodbine Ave, in the East Danforth neighbourhood of Toronto. The store featured several Coca-Cola signs, including one on the building’s east side. Next door is the Danforth Mennonite Church (David L. Hunsberger/Mennonite Archives of Ontario CA MAO 1984-1 273)

April 1963 – Looking southwest along Queen St W from Bay St in downtown Toronto. Notice the Coca-Cola sign on the east side of the Broadway Theatre. In 1965, this block, opposite Nathan Phillips Square, was demolished to make way for redevelopment (City of Toronto Archives, Ellis Wiley fonds, Fonds 124, File 1, Item 102)

June 1964 – The buildings that once stood on the south side of King St W, near York St, featured storefronts with Coca-Cola advertisements. Lichtman's News Stand displayed Coca-Cola signs in the window, alongside Pepsi signs shaped like bottle caps. There was also another Coca-Cola sign on the Scottish Club next door. Later, the National Bank Tower was built on this site at 121 King St W — June 1964 – The buildings that once stood on the south side of King St W, near York St, featured storefronts with Coca-Cola advertisements. Lichtman’s News Stand displayed Coca-Cola signs in the window, alongside Pepsi signs shaped like bottle caps. There was also another Coca-Cola sign on the Scottish Club next door. Later, the National Bank Tower was built on this site at 121 King St W (City of Toronto Archives, Ellis Wiley fonds, Fonds 124, File 1, Item 130)

Circa 1965 – The two Coca-Cola signs at the rear of Show Bar Restaurant once at 109-113 Queen St W in downtown Toronto (City of Toronto Archives, Fonds 220, Series 65, File 284, Item 22 - Alexandra Studio photographs) — Circa 1965 – The two Coca-Cola signs at the rear of Show Bar Restaurant once at 109-113 Queen St W in downtown Toronto (City of Toronto Archives, Fonds 220, Series 65, File 284, Item 22 – Alexandra Studio photographs)

March 7, 2020 - Coca-Cola advertising on the napkin dispenser and salt and pepper shakers at the Avenue Diner at 222 Davenport Rd in the The Annex neighbourhood of Toronto — March 7, 2020 – Coca-Cola advertising on the napkin dispenser and salt and pepper shakers at the Avenue Diner at 222 Davenport Rd in the The Annex neighbourhood of Toronto

1972 – Looking southwest on Spadina Ave at Grange Ave in the Chinatown neighbourhood of Toronto. Notice the "Drink Coca-Cola for that Refreshing New Feeling" sign on the buiding's north-facing wall. A few of the businesses in the photo include Mintz Tavern & Steak House, Wong's Restaurant, King Coin Arcade and Victor Goodman Limited Furriers — 1972 – Looking southwest on Spadina Ave at Grange Ave in the Chinatown neighbourhood of Toronto. Notice the “Drink Coca-Cola for that Refreshing New Feeling” sign on the buiding’s north-facing wall. A few of the businesses in the photo include Mintz Tavern & Steak House, Wong’s Restaurant, King Coin Arcade and Victor Goodman Limited Furriers (City of Toronto Archives, Toronto Planning Board fonds, Fonds 2032, Series 841, File 47, Item 22)

January 5, 2020 - The storefront at 1149 Dundas St W, west of Ossington Ave in the Little Portugal neighbourhood, features two signs from the past, including a vintage Coca-Cola sign hanging above the Nazare Snack Bar sign. Today, the space is home to The Communist's Daughter — January 5, 2020 – The storefront at 1149 Dundas St W, west of Ossington Ave in the Little Portugal neighbourhood, features two signs from the past, including a vintage Coca-Cola sign hanging above the Nazare Snack Bar sign. Today, the space is home to The Communist’s Daughter

1972 – Looking southeast towards the corner of Queen St E and Mutual St in the Garden District neighbourhood of Toronto. The former Golden Grill Restaurant featured Coca-Cola buttons and signs along with a hanging Mountain Dew sign (City of Toronto Archives, Toronto Planning Board fonds, Fonds 2032, Series 841, File 47, Item 27)

1972 – Looking northeast towards the corner of Carlton St and Ontario St, in the Cabbagetown neighbourhood of Toronto. Notice the Coca-Cola buttons displayed on both Wong's Fruit Market and Home Made Candies shop fronts — 1972 – Looking northeast towards the corner of Carlton St and Ontario St, in the Cabbagetown neighbourhood of Toronto. Notice the Coca-Cola buttons displayed on both Wong’s Fruit Market and Home Made Candies shop fronts (City of Toronto Archives, Fonds 2032, Series 841, File 12, Item 14)

August 14, 2021 - The storefront at the southwest corner of Roncesvalles Ave and Galley Ave in the Roncesvalles neighbourhood, features a beautiful old sign. Once home to the Galley Food Market, the nostalgic sign showcases three Coca-Cola buttons — August 14, 2021 – The storefront at the southwest corner of Roncesvalles Ave and Galley Ave in the Roncesvalles neighbourhood, features a beautiful old sign. Once home to the Galley Food Market, the nostalgic sign showcases three Coca-Cola buttons

1972 – Looking southwest towards the corner of Dundas St E and Jarvis St, in the Garden District of Toronto. In the right background of the photo, notice the two painted signs on the building; one points to the former Warwick Hotel, which was once across the street and above it, a Coca-Cola sign (City of Toronto Archives, Toronto Planning Board fonds, Fonds 2032, Series 841, File 9, Item 12)

1972 – Looking southeast along Bay St from Edward St in the Downtown Yonge area of Toronto. To the left, you can see a Coca-Cola sign on the side of Coleman's Delicatessen. On the right, notice the entrance to the former Hotel Ford, which was located at 595 Bay St — 1972 – Looking southeast along Bay St from Edward St in the Downtown Yonge area of Toronto. To the left, you can see a Coca-Cola sign on the side of Coleman’s Delicatessen. On the right, notice the entrance to the former Hotel Ford, which was located at 595 Bay St (City of Toronto Archives, Toronto Planning Board fonds, Fonds 2032, Series 841, File 59, Item 24)

1972 – Looking southeast towards the corner of Spadina Ave and Bulwer St in the Alexandra Park neighbourhood of Toronto. Notice the Coca-Cola signs on Jimmy's Lunch, and just above it hangs a Pepsi sign from Tom's Lunch, which previously occupied the restaurant — 1972 – Looking southeast towards the corner of Spadina Ave and Bulwer St in the Alexandra Park neighbourhood of Toronto. Notice the Coca-Cola signs on Jimmy’s Lunch, and just above it hangs a Pepsi sign from Tom’s Lunch, which previously occupied the restaurant (City of Toronto Archives, Toronto Planning Board fonds, Fonds 2032, Series 841, File 47, Item 27)

May 12, 2024 - The hanging Coca-Cola sign at 1598 Queen St W, west of Sorauren Ave in the Parkdale neighbourhood of Toronto — May 12, 2024 – The hanging Coca-Cola sign at 1598 Queen St W, west of Sorauren Ave in the Parkdale neighbourhood of Toronto

1972 – The former Spadina Food Market at the southeast corner of Spadina Ave and Sussex Ave in the Huron Sussex neighbourhood featured several Coca-Cola signs on its storefront. Notice the old Pepsi-Cola sign on the second storey (City of Toronto Archives, Toronto Planning Board fonds, Fonds 2032, Series 841, File 55, Item 11)

Between 1972 and 1980s - Looking northeast along Dundas St E towards Mutual St in the Garden District of Toronto. A few establishments in the photo include Harvest Steaks, Steve's Shoe Repair, Tom's Open Kitchen and Deny's Barbeque. Notice the "Drink Coca-Cola" sign on the wall of the former Warwick Hotel in the distance — Between 1972 and 1980s – Looking northeast along Dundas St E towards Mutual St in the Garden District of Toronto. A few establishments in the photo include Harvest Steaks, Steve’s Shoe Repair, Tom’s Open Kitchen and Deny’s Barbeque. Notice the “Drink Coca-Cola” sign on the wall of the former Warwick Hotel in the distance (City of Toronto Archives, Fonds 200, Series 1465, File 351, Item 3 – Urban Design photographs)

Between 1972 and 1982 - Looking northwest up Parliament St from north of Dundas St E in the Cabbagetown South neighbourhood. Note that the former Stern's Variety features both Coca-Cola and Pepsi signage on its storefront — Between 1972 and 1982 – Looking northwest up Parliament St from north of Dundas St E in the Cabbagetown South neighbourhood. Note that the former Stern’s Variety features both Coca-Cola and Pepsi signage on its storefront (City of Toronto Archives, Fonds 200, Series 1465, File 377 Item 28 – Urban Design photographs)

December 29, 2019 – Rosa & Joe's Pentone Cigar and Convenience Store at the northwest corner of Wallace Ave and St Clarens Ave in the Junction-Wallace Emerson neighbourhood, features a "Drink Coca-Cola" sign in its window — December 29, 2019 – Rosa & Joe’s Pentone Cigar and Convenience Store at the northwest corner of Wallace Ave and St Clarens Ave in the Junction-Wallace Emerson neighbourhood, features a “Drink Coca-Cola” sign in its window

July 7, 1974 - The storefronts once on the west side of Yonge St, once between Heath St and Delisle Ave, in the Yonge-St Clair neighbourhood of Toronto. Notice the Coca-Cola advertising on the former Wong's Marketeria storefront — July 7, 1974 – The storefronts once on the west side of Yonge St, once between Heath St and Delisle Ave, in the Yonge-St Clair neighbourhood of Toronto. Notice the Coca-Cola advertising on the former Wong’s Marketeria storefront (City of Toronto Archives, Harvey R. Naylor fonds, Fonds 1526, File 1, Item 20)

May 13, 1977 - Looking west on Dundas St E from Jarvis St in the Garden District, with a Coca-Cola sign on the left and the former Warwick Hotel on the right — May 13, 1977 – Looking west on Dundas St E from Jarvis St in the Garden District, with a Coca-Cola sign on the left and the former Warwick Hotel on the right (City of Toronto Archives, Harvey R. Naylor fonds, Fonds 1526, File 87, Item 39)

November 9, 1978 – Looking northeast towards the corner of Dundas St E and Mutual St in the Garden District. Notice Tom's Open Kitchen, Deny's Barbeque, the Pepsi sign on Ted's Variety Store and the Coca-Cola sign on the old Warwick Hotel — November 9, 1978 – Looking northeast towards the corner of Dundas St E and Mutual St in the Garden District. Notice Tom’s Open Kitchen, Deny’s Barbeque, the Pepsi sign on Ted’s Variety Store and the Coca-Cola sign on the old Warwick Hotel (City of Toronto Archives, Fonds 1526, File 9, Item 12)

1980 – The take-out window, once located near Peter St (Blue Jays Way) and Wellington St W displayed both a Coca-Cola sign and a Pepsi-Cola bottle cap sign (City of Toronto Archives, Fonds 200, Series 1465, File 300, Item 4 – Urban Design photographs)

August 13, 1981 – Two Coca-Cola signs in the storefront windows of the building once at 153 McCaul St, opposite D'Arcy St in downtown Toronto — August 13, 1981 – Two Coca-Cola signs in the storefront windows of the building once at 153 McCaul St, opposite D’Arcy St in downtown Toronto (City of Toronto Archives, Harvey R. Naylor fonds, Fonds 1526, File 61, Item 93)

May 31, 1981 – Looking northeast along Queen St E towards a "Enjoy Coca-Cola" sign with the slogan "It's the real thing. Coke" on The Broadview Hotel in the Riverside neighbourhood — May 31, 1981 – Looking northeast along Queen St E towards a “Enjoy Coca-Cola” sign with the slogan “It’s the real thing. Coke” on The Broadview Hotel in the Riverside neighbourhood (City of Toronto Archives, Harvey R. Naylor fonds, Fonds 1526, File 75, Item 72)

1982 – The former Canary Restaurant, which was located at the southeast corner of Front St E and Cherry St, featured a "Drink Coca-Cola" button on its sign. The photo also showcases the restaurant's beautiful neon sign, along with Canada Post letter boxes and newspaper boxes for the Toronto Sun, Toronto Star, and The Globe and Mail, as well as a phone booth — 1982 – The former Canary Restaurant, which was located at the southeast corner of Front St E and Cherry St, featured a “Drink Coca-Cola” button on its sign. The photo also showcases the restaurant’s beautiful neon sign, along with Canada Post letter boxes and newspaper boxes for the Toronto Sun, Toronto Star, and The Globe and Mail, as well as a phone booth (City of Toronto Archives, Fonds 620, Item 616 – Avard Woolaver photographer)

July 21, 1982 – Looking southwest on Broadview Ave towards Queen St E and The Broadview Hotel, which featured an "Enjoy Coca-Cola" sign — July 21, 1982 – Looking southwest on Broadview Ave towards Queen St E and The Broadview Hotel, which featured an “Enjoy Coca-Cola” sign (City of Toronto Archives, Harvey R. Naylor fonds, Fonds 1526, File 7, Item 146)

1983 – A Diet Coke-sponsored extravaganza took place at The Bandshell during the Canadian National Exhibition, featuring performers dressed in the brand’s signature white and red colours. Earlier that year, The Bandshell received $200,000 in upgrades, including enlarging the stage and adding a removable grid to shelter entertainers (CNE Archives)