Nutmeg
American licensed sports-merchandise maker founded by the Jacobson brothers in the early 1980s. 'Nutmeg Mills' on white tags with bold red lettering and 'Made in U.S.A.' marks the 1980s; 'NUTMEG' alone in large bold red letters is the 1990s sports graphic-tee identifier.
- Origin
- USA
- Founded
- 1980
- Category
- Athletic & Streetwear
- Documented eras
- 2
How Nutmeg labels evolved over time. Match the markers below against the tag in hand to place a garment in its era.
1980–1989
1980s vintage Nutmeg tags
Early tags feature the “Nutmeg Mills” branding Tags are predominantly white with bold red lettering and “Made in U.S.A.” text.
- Early tags feature the “Nutmeg Mills” branding.
- Tags are predominantly white with bold red lettering and “Made in U.S.A.” text.
- Some tags include a size indicator directly below the brand name.
How to spot it
Early tags feature the “Nutmeg Mills” branding — confirms this label era.
Value signal
Good vintage demand; 1980s label detail is a key value driver.
1990–1999
1990s vintage Nutmeg tags
Tags often display “Nutmeg” in large, bold red letters Includes “MILLS” in smaller, spaced-out letters below the main logo.
- Tags often display “Nutmeg” in large, bold red letters.
- Includes “MILLS” in smaller, spaced-out letters below the main logo.
- Consistent use of “Made in U.S.A.” and care instructions on the tag.
- Some variations include additional design elements such as green or blue accents and different label shapes.
How to spot it
Tags often display “Nutmeg” in large, bold red letters — confirms this label era.
Value signal
Moderate collector interest; condition and completeness determine value.