Oregon Lottery Celebrates 40th Anniversary With New Scratch-it, Retail Partnerships (Photo) -04/23/25
Salem, Ore. – Oregon Lottery is celebrating a big milestone – it’s been 40 years since the first tickets were sold on April 25, 1985, creating dreams for future millionaires while supporting state programs and retailers.
To commemorate the anniversary, Oregon Lottery created a 40th Anniversary Scratch-it, themed after Lottery’s very first game, Pot of Gold. The ticket is on sale now for $30 and features 25 top prizes of $40,000.
With voter approval, Oregon Lottery was originally created to help jump-start the state’s economy by supporting economic development. It wasn’t until 1995 when voters approved an amendment to allocate Lottery funds for public education. Since then, other beneficiaries were added such as state parks, outdoor school, veterans services, and more. Lottery is now the state’s second largest funding source after personal income tax, contributing over $16.5 billion to state programs.
“For decades, Lottery revenue has helped support inspiring teachers, brave veterans, curious students, and innovative businesses,” said Oregon Lottery Director Mike Wells. “As we look to the future, we remain committed to operating the lottery as a stable and reliable source of funding for our state.”
More than 200 retailers big and small have been with Oregon Lottery since the beginning, including well-known names such as Safeway, McKay’s Market, Plaid Pantry, Roth’s Fresh Markets, Thriftway, 7-Eleven, and Fred Meyer stores.
"Fred Meyer is proud to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Oregon Lottery,” said Tiffany Sanders, corporate affairs manager for Fred Meyer. “Over the years, the Oregon Lottery has contributed significantly to education, parks, and vital state programs, making a lasting impact on the lives of Oregonians. Here's to 40 years of fun, excitement, and community growth, and to many more years of making a difference together!"
Greek Village is a locally-owned retailer near Cedar Hills. The restaurant/lounge was amongst the inaugural establishments to sell Oregon Lottery games and was founded by current owner Irene Pavlatos’ father in 1971. She now runs the business and is able to pay her cooks more than many competitors because of the boost from offering Lottery games. In one recent instance, she was able to help an employee who suffered a personal hardship with Lottery sales commissions paid to her business.
“We have that room to give her a bonus,” she said. “It allows us to do a lot of good that we wouldn’t be able to do without it.”
Celebrating 40 years of selling games since April 25, 1985, Oregon Lottery has earned more than $16.5 billion for economic development, public education, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org.
