There’s something magical about vintage candy—it brings back childhood memories, simpler times, and the unmistakable joy of unwrapping a sweet treat. At Oswald’s Pharmacy in Naperville, we take pride in offering a wide selection of nostalgic candies, allowing you to relive the flavors of the past or introduce them to a new generation. Whether you’re reminiscing about your favorite childhood sweets or looking for the perfect retro gift, we’ve got you covered!

Here’s a look at our 10 most popular vintage candies that continue to delight customers of all ages.

1. Necco Wafers

First produced in 1847, Necco Wafers are one of America’s oldest candies. These thin, crunchy wafers come in a variety of flavors, from chocolate and clove to cinnamon and wintergreen. Their unique texture and iconic pastel colors make them a beloved classic.

2. Jelly Beans

While jelly beans come in many varieties today, the classic old-fashioned jelly beans have been a staple in candy jars for decades. These colorful, chewy treats are perfect for any occasion—especially around Easter!

3. C. Howard’s Violet Mints

A truly unique vintage candy, C. Howard’s Violet Mints have a floral, perfumed flavor that sets them apart from anything else. Their distinctive lavender-colored packaging and elegant taste have made them a favorite among those who appreciate something a little different.

4. Claey’s Candy

For lovers of old-fashioned hard candy, Claey’s Candy is a must-try. Available in classic flavors like root beer, sassafras, and horehound, these nostalgic sweets bring back memories of visiting a corner store with a few cents in hand.

5. Chuckles

These fruity, sugar-coated jelly candies have been around since the 1920s. Chuckles come in five classic flavors—lemon, lime, cherry, orange, and licorice—delivering a satisfying combination of chewiness and sweetness.

6. Charleston Chew

A staple at movie theaters for generations, Charleston Chew is a nougat-filled, chocolate-covered candy bar that’s perfect for eating frozen. Available in vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry, this chewy delight is a classic that never goes out of style.

7. Bun Bars

If you love chocolate, peanuts, and caramel, the Bun Bar is for you! This old-fashioned treat has been around since the 1920s and offers a satisfying crunch with every bite.

8. Zotz

These fizzy, sour-filled hard candies are a favorite for those who enjoy a little tang with their sweetness. Zotz start off as a standard hard candy, but once you reach the center, you get a surprising burst of effervescence—a fun and nostalgic treat!

9. Pez

No vintage candy collection is complete without Pez. These tiny, flavorful candies are as much about the collectible dispensers as they are about the taste. Whether you prefer fruity or sour flavors, Pez remains a childhood favorite for many.

10. Candy Sticks

Sometimes called candy cigarettes, these chalky, sweet sticks of sugar were a childhood staple in the mid-20th century. While the branding has changed over the years, the deliciously simple flavor remains the same.

Find Your Favorite Retro Candy at Oswald’s!

Whether you’re craving a Charleston Chew, looking for a pack of Pez, or eager to introduce a new generation to the timeless flavors of Necco Wafers, Oswald’s Pharmacy has all the nostalgic sweets you need.

Stop by our Naperville location and browse our selection of vintage candies—because some things never go out of style!