Rusty Spur Saloon’s Iconic Walls Were Covered in Dollar Bills. Now They’re Gone

A long-standing custom of guests fastening signed dollar bills to the walls to commemorate their visit to the Rusty Spur Saloon has evolved into an annual tradition of giving back.

The country Western bar on Main Street in Old Town Scottsdale is known for its cash lining the walls, a tradition that began years ago. The bar’s owners decided to put the money back to the community by donating it to the Phoenix Children’s Foundation every December.

“These dollar bills symbolize not only the memories made here but also the potential to make a difference in our community,” says Janeth Moore, operations manager of Rusty Spur Saloon.

Dedicated employees of Scottsdale’s oldest bar removed thousands of bills to donate a grand total of $6,000 to the Hope Fund, which provides critical resources for innovative treatments, advanced equipment, and family-centered care at Phoenix Children’s Hospital.

This year, the collected bills totaled $5,742. To make an even greater impact, the owners of POV Foods, the parent company of Rusty Spur Saloon, rounded up the amount to $6,000. This year’s donation surpasses last December’s $5,000 contribution, reflecting the growing generosity of the Rusty Spur community.

The donation will support more than 170 essential programs dedicated to providing world-class care for children facing illnesses and injuries. The Hope Fund enables the hospital to invest in cutting-edge technology, launch new clinical programs, and sustain initiatives that prioritize family-centered care.

“We are incredibly grateful for the amazing support from Rusty Spur, their employees, and their customers year after year,” says Jordan Olstead, corporate development officer from Phoenix Children’s Foundation. “Partnerships like this empower us to continue delivering vital services to our patients and their families.”

A total of $6,000 was donated to the Hope Fund at Phoenix Children’s Hospital. Courtesy Rusty Spur Saloon

The Rusty Spur Saloon has been a cornerstone of Downtown Scottsdale since 1951, operating in a building that dates back to 1921, when it served as the Farmer’s State Bank of Scottsdale. The building retains its historical charm, including its original bank vault, now cleverly repurposed as a refrigerated storage unit for beverages. Known for its authentic Southwestern vibe, the Rusty Spur offers cold beer, prickly pear margaritas, and live country music daily, attracting both locals and global visitors. Celebrity patrons, including Dierks Bentley, Blake Shelton, and Post Malone, have enjoyed its lively atmosphere.