Introduction
If you grew up watching mid-century television commercials, you might remember a pair of puppets named Wilkins and Wontkins. These characters appeared in short, often slapstick spots for a brand called Wilkins Coffee. Decades later, coffee drinkers and collectors still ask: Do They Still Make Wilkins Coffee? The short answer is no, not in the way the brand was once sold in grocery stores. However, the story behind Wilkins Coffee is more interesting than a simple yes or no.
This article explains what happened to Wilkins Coffee, where the brand came from, why it remains culturally relevant, and what you can do if you are looking for vintage cans, memorabilia, or a comparable coffee to drink today. Whether you are a collector, a Jim Henson enthusiast, or simply curious about a nostalgic grocery item, this guide covers the history, current availability, collecting tips, and practical alternatives. Read on to learn everything you need to know about Wilkins Coffee and whether it is still possible to buy a can.
- What Is Wilkins Coffee?
- The Jim Henson Wilkins and Wontkins Connection
- Do They Still Make Wilkins Coffee? Current Status
- Where to Find Wilkins Coffee Today
- Step-by-Step: How to Search for Wilkins Coffee
- Vintage Wilkins Coffee: Collecting vs. Drinking
- Comparison Table: Then and Now
- Tips and Best Practices for Vintage Coffee Collectors
- Common Mistakes and Misconceptions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
What Is Wilkins Coffee?
Wilkins Coffee was a regional coffee brand that enjoyed popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly in the Washington, D.C. area and surrounding states. It was sold primarily as ground coffee in metal cans, a standard packaging format for grocery store coffee before vacuum-sealed bags became dominant. The company positioned itself as a reliable, everyday coffee for households that wanted a consistent cup without paying premium prices.
Unlike national giants such as Maxwell House or Folgers, Wilkins operated on a smaller scale. This regional focus helped it build local loyalty, but it also made the brand vulnerable to consolidation and changing consumer habits. Because the company was never a multinational corporation, records about its exact founding date, peak production volume, and eventual closure are fragmented. What is clear is that Wilkins Coffee disappeared from mainstream shelves decades ago.
The brand’s product line was straightforward. It offered standard ground coffee blends intended for drip brewers and percolators, which were the dominant home brewing methods of the era. There were no single-origin offerings, no fair-trade certifications, and no whole-bean options in the modern sense. Wilkins Coffee was a product of its time: affordable, widely distributed through local supermarkets, and heavily advertised through regional media.
Understanding what Wilkins Coffee was helps explain why the question “Do They Still Make Wilkins Coffee?” continues to surface in search engines, collector forums, and nostalgia groups. The brand was never a global household name, but it left a strong impression on the people who bought it.
The Jim Henson Wilkins and Wontkins Connection
Any discussion of Wilkins Coffee must address the Wilkins and Wontkins puppets, created by a young Jim Henson in the 1950s. Before the Muppets became a global phenomenon, Henson produced short television commercials for Wilkins Coffee featuring two puppets: Wilkins, who loved the coffee, and Wontkins, who did not. In each spot, typically lasting only ten seconds, Wontkins would express his dislike for Wilkins Coffee, and Wilkins would respond with exaggerated physical comedy.
The commercials were humorous, memorable, and surprisingly dark for their time. Wilkins might blow Wontkins up, hit him with a mallet, drop him through a trapdoor, or otherwise subject him to slapstick misfortune. These spots aired primarily in the Washington, D.C. market, where Wilkins Coffee was distributed. Because Henson was still early in his career, the Wilkins and Wontkins commercials represent one of his first major commercial successes.
The connection to Jim Henson is a major reason why people still search for Wilkins Coffee today. Collectors of Henson memorabilia seek out original Wilkins Coffee advertising materials, including the metal cans that featured the puppet characters. However, it is important to separate the cultural legacy of the commercials from the commercial status of the coffee itself. The popularity of the ads does not mean the product remained in production. In fact, the brand faded from grocery shelves while the commercials gained retro fame.
This gap between cultural memory and market availability is exactly why the question “Do They Still Make Wilkins Coffee?” remains common. People remember the puppets and assume the coffee must still exist somewhere.
Do They Still Make Wilkins Coffee? Current Status
The direct answer to “Do They Still Make Wilkins Coffee?” is no. The original Wilkins Coffee Company is not producing coffee for commercial retail distribution under that name today. You will not find a can of Wilkins Coffee on the shelf of a modern supermarket, warehouse club, or major online grocery retailer. The brand appears to have been discontinued decades ago as regional coffee companies were acquired by larger competitors or went out of business.
That said, the absence of commercial production does not mean the name has vanished entirely. Trademark rights can lapse, change hands, or be held by entities that do not actively use them. It is possible that small-scale roasters or entrepreneurs have experimented with the Wilkins Coffee name on a local or limited basis, but there is no evidence of a sustained, nationwide revival. If you encounter a product labeled Wilkins Coffee today, it is most likely vintage stock, a collector’s item, or a small-batch novelty rather than a regular commercial offering.
For consumers hoping to brew a cup of Wilkins Coffee, the reality is disappointing. Original cans from the 1950s, 1960s, or 1970s that are still sealed are collectible artifacts, not beverages. Coffee is an agricultural product that degrades over time. Even vacuum-sealed grounds from decades ago will taste stale, flat, and potentially rancid. The oils in roasted coffee break down, and the aromatic compounds that give coffee its flavor dissipate. Drinking vintage coffee is not recommended for enjoyment or safety.
Where to Find Wilkins Coffee Today
If you are looking for Wilkins Coffee, you are likely looking for one of three things: vintage coffee cans, advertising memorabilia, or information about the brand. Empty metal cans from the mid-20th century occasionally appear on online marketplaces such as eBay and Etsy, as well as in antique malls, estate sales, and flea markets. Prices vary based on condition, rarity, and whether the can features the Wilkins and Wontkins puppets.
Full, unopened cans are much rarer and command higher prices among collectors, though they are not suitable for brewing. Advertising materials, including original television commercials, print ads, and puppet-related merchandise, can sometimes be found through specialty collectors, auction houses, or online video archives. The Jim Henson Company and various preservation groups have made some of the original Wilkins and Wontkins commercials available for viewing, which allows fans to experience the marketing without needing to own a physical can.
Local antique shops in the Mid-Atlantic region may yield better results than national chains, since Wilkins Coffee was primarily distributed in that area. Networking with collectors through forums and social media groups can also help you locate specific items. When purchasing, always verify the condition of the can, check for rust or dents, and ask the seller whether the can is empty or full. Never assume that a vintage can contains drinkable coffee.
Step-by-Step: How to Search for Wilkins Coffee
If you want to locate Wilkins Coffee memorabilia or determine whether any current production exists, follow these steps.
- Decide what you are looking for. Are you seeking an empty vintage can for display, a full sealed can for a collection, advertising materials, or simply information? Knowing your goal will shape your search terms and where you look.
- Search online marketplaces. Use eBay, Etsy, and specialized collectible sites. Search for “Wilkins Coffee can,” “Wilkins and Wontkins,” and “vintage Wilkins Coffee.” Filter by sold listings to see what items have actually sold for, rather than just asking prices.
- Check antique malls and estate sales. Because Wilkins Coffee had regional distribution, physical locations in Maryland, Virginia, Washington, D.C., and nearby states may have better inventory. Call ahead to ask if they carry vintage food packaging or coffee memorabilia.
- Join collector communities. Online forums and social media groups dedicated to vintage advertising, coffee tins, or Jim Henson memorabilia can connect you with people who own Wilkins Coffee items or know where to find them.
- Verify authenticity and condition. Ask for clear photos of the can, including the bottom and any seams. Look for signs of rust, dents, or label peeling. Confirm whether the can is empty or sealed. A sealed vintage can is a collectible, not a beverage.
- Set a budget. Common empty cans may sell for modest amounts, while rare variants or full cans can be expensive. Avoid overpaying based on nostalgia alone.
- Store your find properly. If you acquire a vintage can, keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent further label fading or metal corrosion.
Vintage Wilkins Coffee: Collecting vs. Drinking
It is essential to distinguish between collecting Wilkins Coffee and drinking it. Collectors value the metal cans, labels, and advertising artwork as artifacts of mid-century consumer culture. A can in good condition, especially one featuring the Wilkins and Wontkins puppets, can be a worthwhile display piece. Drinking the contents, however, is a different matter entirely.
Coffee does not age like wine. Ground coffee exposed to air, even in a sealed can, loses flavor within weeks or months. After decades, the beans or grounds inside a vintage can will be stale, oxidized, and unpleasant. The natural oils can go rancid, producing off-flavors and potential digestive discomfort. There is also no way to verify storage conditions over fifty or sixty years. A can stored in a hot attic or damp basement may be compromised in ways that are not visible from the outside.
If you find a full, unopened can of Wilkins Coffee, treat it as a collectible object. Do not open it to brew the coffee. Instead, enjoy the packaging, research its history, and perhaps display it alongside other vintage kitchenware. For an actual cup of coffee, choose a modern roast that matches the flavor profile you remember or imagine.
Comparison Table: Then and Now
The following table compares the original Wilkins Coffee, its current status, and modern alternatives available to consumers.
| Feature | Original Wilkins Coffee (Mid-20th Century) | Wilkins Coffee Today | Modern Grocery Alternatives |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial Production | Yes, regional distribution | No, not produced at scale | Yes, nationwide distribution |
| Availability | Grocery stores in the Mid-Atlantic region | Collector markets and online resale | Supermarkets, warehouse clubs, online retailers |
| Packaging | Metal cans with paper labels | Vintage cans only | Bags, cans, pods, and single-serve cups |
| Drinkability | Fresh ground coffee | Not recommended; vintage grounds are stale | Freshly roasted and ground |
| Collectibility | Not originally intended as collectible | High among advertising and Henson collectors | Low; modern packaging is not collectible |
| Price Range | Inexpensive everyday product | Varies widely by condition and rarity | Budget to premium options |
Tips and Best Practices for Vintage Coffee Collectors
If you decide to collect Wilkins Coffee items, follow these best practices to protect your investment and avoid common pitfalls.
- Focus on condition. A vintage can with minimal rust, no major dents, and a clean label is worth more than a corroded or crushed example. The presence of the Wilkins and Wontkins characters generally increases desirability, but condition still matters most.
- Store items properly. Keep cans away from moisture, which causes rust, and away from direct sunlight, which fades paper labels. A closet or display cabinet in a climate-controlled room is ideal. Do not store vintage cans in garages, attics, or basements where temperature and humidity fluctuate.
- Document your purchases. Save receipts, seller information, and photographs. If you ever decide to sell or insure your collection, provenance and condition records will be valuable.
- Do not assume every old coffee can is rare. Wilkins Coffee was a regional brand, but it was produced in significant quantities during its run. Some cans are common, while others are scarce. Research recent sale prices before making a major purchase.
- Be cautious with full cans. A sealed vintage can may look appealing, but the coffee inside is not drinkable. Collect the can for its exterior, not its contents. If a seller claims the coffee is still good, treat that claim with skepticism.
- Consider joining a collector group. Whether online or in person, these communities provide authentication help, market insights, and opportunities to trade or buy items directly from other enthusiasts.
Common Mistakes and Misconceptions
Several misconceptions surround Wilkins Coffee, and avoiding them can save time and money.
Mistake 1: Assuming Wilkins Coffee is still sold in stores. The brand is discontinued. Searching grocery aisles or major online grocery sites will not yield a current product.
Mistake 2: Buying a vintage can expecting to brew it. As discussed, coffee from the 1950s or 1960s is not drinkable. Purchase vintage cans for display, not for consumption.
Mistake 3: Confusing Wilkins Coffee with other regional brands. Many mid-century coffee companies used similar packaging and naming conventions. Verify that the item actually says Wilkins Coffee before purchasing.
Mistake 4: Believing the Jim Henson connection means the brand is active. The Wilkins and Wontkins commercials are famous, but their popularity does not indicate ongoing production. Henson’s company did not own the coffee brand; it merely created advertising for it.
Mistake 5: Overpaying for common items. Nostalgia can drive prices above market value. Check completed sales on auction sites to understand realistic pricing.
Mistake 6: Attempting to trademark or commercialize the Wilkins Coffee name without research. Trademark status can be complex. If you want to use the name for a new coffee business, consult a trademark attorney and search the USPTO database to avoid infringement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do They Still Make Wilkins Coffee?
No. The original Wilkins Coffee Company does not produce Wilkins Coffee for commercial retail sale today. You will not find it in grocery stores or major online retailers. Any Wilkins Coffee items available now are vintage collectibles or rare resale listings.
Who Made Wilkins Coffee?
Wilkins Coffee was produced by the Wilkins Coffee Company, a regional brand primarily distributed in the Mid-Atlantic United States, including the Washington, D.C. area. It operated during the mid-20th century before disappearing from mainstream shelves.
Who Were Wilkins and Wontkins?
Wilkins and Wontkins were puppets created by Jim Henson in the 1950s for Wilkins Coffee commercials. Wilkins loved the coffee, while Wontkins disliked it, leading to short, slapstick spots in which Wilkins subjected Wontkins to exaggerated physical comedy.
Can I Drink Vintage Wilkins Coffee?
No. Vintage coffee grounds or beans from decades ago are stale, oxidized, and potentially rancid. They will not taste good and may cause digestive discomfort. Treat full vintage cans as collectibles, not beverages.
Where Can I Buy Wilkins Coffee Cans?
Vintage Wilkins Coffee cans occasionally appear on eBay, Etsy, in antique malls, at estate sales, and through collector networks. Focus your search on the Mid-Atlantic region for better chances of finding local stock.
Is Wilkins Coffee Related to Jim Henson?
Yes, indirectly. Jim Henson created the Wilkins and Wontkins puppets for Wilkins Coffee advertising early in his career. The commercials helped launch his reputation, but Henson did not own the coffee company.
Is There a Modern Version of Wilkins Coffee?
There is no recognized modern commercial version of Wilkins Coffee produced at scale. Small-batch or novelty uses of the name may exist, but nothing comparable to the original regional brand.
How Much Is a Vintage Wilkins Coffee Can Worth?
Value depends on condition, rarity, and whether the can features the Wilkins and Wontkins puppets. Common empty cans may sell for modest amounts, while rare or sealed examples can command higher prices. Check recent completed sales for current market values.
Can I Use the Wilkins Coffee Name for My Own Brand?
Possibly, but you must conduct a thorough trademark search first. The name may still be protected or held by another entity. Consult a trademark attorney and search the USPTO database before using it for a business.
What Coffee Tastes Similar to Wilkins Coffee?
Because original Wilkins Coffee blends are no longer available, there is no exact modern equivalent. Look for medium-roast ground coffee blends marketed as everyday or breakfast coffees. These will approximate the style of a mid-century grocery brand, though the specific flavor cannot be replicated.
Conclusion
If you have been asking “Do They Still Make Wilkins Coffee?” the answer is clear: the original Wilkins Coffee is no longer produced for commercial sale. The brand existed as a regional favorite in the mid-20th century, supported by memorable advertising featuring Jim Henson’s Wilkins and Wontkins puppets. Today, Wilkins Coffee survives as a collectible and a piece of advertising history rather than as a beverage you can buy off the shelf.
For collectors, vintage Wilkins Coffee cans offer a tangible connection to mid-century consumer culture. Focus on condition, store items properly, and avoid the mistake of trying to brew decades-old coffee. For coffee drinkers, modern medium-roast blends provide the closest available alternative, though none can exactly replicate the original blend.
Whether your interest is nostalgia, advertising history, or simply finding a good cup of coffee, understanding the status of Wilkins Coffee helps you set realistic expectations. The brand may be gone from grocery aisles, but its legacy lives on in the memories of those who remember the commercials and the cans that once sat on kitchen counters.