Inflation & the EconomyPrices

The 5-Cent Coke

A bottle of Coca-Cola cost a nickel for over 70 years

For 73 years, through two world wars and the Great Depression, a Coke cost exactly one nickel. How did a price refuse to move?

You'll find out

  • A business deal signed for $1, forever
  • Why machines froze the price
  • The coin Coke's boss asked for

Why it matters

Prices feel like laws of nature. This one was held in place by people, and its story shows what pushes prices up.

About 3 min6 interactive slides · 5 questionsLesson 65 · Zone 8

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