1976 Kentucky Derby Mint Julep Glass: Authentic Harry M. Stevens Collectible, History, Design, and Value Guide

Each spring, the Kentucky Derby gallops into the spotlight as “the most exciting two minutes in sports.” Beyond the thundering hooves and roaring crowds, one of the Derby’s quieter traditions has become a beloved treasure for fans and collectors: the annual Kentucky Derby mint julep glass.

Among these collectibles, the 1976 edition stands out—not only for its bold mid-century style, but also for its connection to an important era in Churchill Downs merchandising. What looks like a simple drinking glass is actually a small time capsule, preserving both racing heritage and the visual language of 1970s Americana.

A Tradition Poured Into Glass

The tradition of releasing commemorative glasses began in 1939, when Churchill Downs introduced them as souvenirs for Derby spectators. Over the decades, these glasses became cherished annual releases, each design reflecting the tone and artistry of its time.

The 1976 version captures that spirit perfectly: energetic, patriotic, and delightfully characteristic of the 70s.

Design Features of the 1976 Glass

1. A Dynamic Front Illustration

The front features a jockey riding a powerful racehorse, framed in a vivid blue oval. The illustration is expressive and textured, reflecting the screen-printing methods of the period. Beside the image, a large “76” marks the year clearly—a distinctive detail many collectors appreciate.

The typography is assertive and decorative, echoing the era’s bold graphic style. The bottom of the glass is wrapped in red-and-white stripes with small stars, adding a patriotic flair that aligns with the lingering bicentennial spirit of 1976 America.

2. The Back: A Historical Ledger of Champions

The reverse side lists Derby winners from the early 1900s up through the mid-1970s. Horses like:

Ben Brush
Sir Barton
Whirlaway
Count Fleet
Black Gold
Stone Street

…stand in neat rows, forming a vertical timeline of achievement. This side of the glass is perhaps its most powerful feature: a quiet remembrance of the horses who shaped Derby history.

Authenticity Mark: The Harry M. Stevens Imprint

This imprint is important.
Harry M. Stevens, Inc. was the official concessionaire for Churchill Downs for many years and was responsible for producing licensed Derby souvenirs, including the mint julep glasses. Their imprint confirms:

The glass is an official 1976 release, not a later reproduction
It comes from an era of high collector interest, when print methods were more manual and each batch had subtle, charming variations
It belongs to the authentic lineage of Derby glass collectibles, treasured by enthusiasts today

This authenticity mark often adds credibility and appeal for collectors.

Cultural Flavor: The 1970s Aesthetic

The 1976 glass carries the unmistakable visual tone of the decade:

Thick outlines
Limited color palettes
A slightly distressed texture due to screen-printing
Confident, straightforward typography

This style reflects a design period where practicality and boldness blended. Even faded prints on old glasses become part of their nostalgic charm.

Collectibility and Value

The 1976 Derby glass is considered a desirable vintage piece due to:

Its strong Americana theme
Its detailed winner list
Its official Harry M. Stevens imprint
The iconic 1970s illustration style

In today’s market, values generally range from $10 to $40 USD, depending on condition and clarity of print. More than monetary worth, however, collectors often value these glasses for their history and their connection to a long-standing Derby tradition.

Why This Glass Feels Special Today

For anyone who loves horses, heritage, or vintage design, the 1976 Derby glass is more than a souvenir. It’s:

A piece of equine history
A memory of American sporting culture
A product of careful craftsmanship
And a tribute to the legacy of Churchill Downs

Held up to the light, its colors and lines seem to glow with the stories of the riders and horses who came before—reminding us that history can live inside everyday objects.

✨ Reflection

The 1976 Derby glass reminds us how history can live quietly inside familiar objects. Its worn lines, old names, and simple colors carry a heritage deeper than decoration—inviting us to pause, remember, and honor the stories that shaped it. In noticing these small details, we learn to treasure how past and present meet in the everyday things we hold.