Tap Handle #857: Rainier - "Flying R"

Tap size:  8"

Rarity:  tap no longer produced

Mounting:  internal 3/8" nut

Plymouth's "Flying Lady"

Buick's "Goddess"

There's something classic and timeless in the art deco styling of this tap handle from Rainier. With its inspiration harkening back to the 1920's - 1940's era, this tap, known as the "Flying R", was modeled to look like car hood emblems from that early period, such as Plymouth's "Flying Lady" or Buick's "Goddess" (see photos inset). The tap itself may have been in use as early as the 1970's or 1980's. Made of molded plastic, two color variations can be found: silver (more common) and gold (less common); both variations have a black band with "Rainier" sculpted across it. It is small and lightweight, but an example that has the paint fully intact is quite beautiful. Due to its smaller size, I have reduced the number of photos taken. While it is not exactly scarce - several of these have appeared on the secondary market over the years (although some could be the same tap changing hands) - it is scarce enough and desirable enough to frequently sell for around $100 but the price does fluctuate wildly at times. It is sometimes listed as "art deco" or "lady" in the description; however, the official moniker of the tap is "Flying R".

To read more about Rainier Brewing, see this post.