Keep an Eye Out for These 3 Popular Coca-Cola Collectibles

There’s nothing more refreshing than an ice-cold sip of your favorite soda—and for many people, Coca-Cola takes the cake. If you’ve ever found a vintage Coca-Cola tray in a thrift store or grew up sipping from the iconic, blue-tinted bottles, you’ll understand just how widespread the love of this beverage goes. 

With that much passion, it’s no wonder that people around the globe spend their time and energy searching for Coca-Cola collectibles! Follow along to learn more about the wonderful world of vintage Coca-Cola products and start your collection ASAP—preferably with a newly popped can in hand.

The History of Coca-Cola

When Dr. John Pemberton created the delicious syrup base for Coca-Cola in 1886, he had no idea the massive level of success that would soon come his way. A pharmacist himself, Pemberton designed the concoction as a general tonic for common ailments. To make it, the bartender simply added carbonated water, creating a delicious fountain drink quickly beloved by all. 

After a few years of raging success in the soda world, Coca-Cola began to create collectible merchandise spanning all types of products, from vintage Coca-Cola holiday décor to collectible pins and more. Nowadays, avid collectors are seeking everything from old Coke bottles to the newest brand deals to show off their love for the tasty beverage. 

Why Do People Collect Coca-Cola Collectibles?

While some people may write off the branded old Coke bottles as recycling, as the saying goes, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure! When it comes to Coca-Cola collectibles, people are either invested in the financial aspect, as some products can be quite valuable, or in the emotional, nostalgic ties the company brings to mind. Whatever the motivation is, one thing is certain: die-hard cola drinkers adore collecting vintage Coca-Cola items. 

What Elements Determine the Value of a Vintage Coca-Cola Product?

Depending on the product, Coca-Cola collectibles can be worth anywhere from a couple of bucks to a couple thousand dollars. It doesn’t matter whether it’s an old Coke bottle or a newer mini fridge model—the value of most Coca-Cola items found in vendor malls is judged by the following:

• Age: with 135+ years of assorted products, the year something was made is a huge indicator of its price point—in general, the older, the better!

• Condition: as with any collectible, the closer to mint condition, the higher the value. Any general damage, whether it be chips, scratches, or discoloration, can decrease the value of a vintage Coca-Cola item.

• Limited edition releases: from old Coke bottles to garments, limited editions released for specific purposes or seasons can have a higher value than something produced year-round.

• Rarity: think of it as supply and demand—if there are only a couple of a specific Coca-Cola collectible, people will pay even more for the chance to own it. 

• Glass colors: when it comes to old coke bottles, the color of the glass is the best way to determine value. 

3 Types of Coca-Cola Collectibles You’ll Want to Find

If you’re looking to take your love of bubbly soft drinks to the next level, it’s time to start your collection! As you shop at different vendor malls and online, keep your eyes peeled for these three popular types of Coca-Cola collectibles: 

1. Vintage Coca-Cola Signs 

If you’re interested in featuring your collectibles front and center in your home décor, vintage Coca-Cola signs are the perfect product. From early hand-painted metal signs to baked embossed enamel options, there are plenty to choose from. Just look for that iconic bright red color and hang your signs as unique decorations.

2. Coca-Cola Collectible Glassware

Although the majority of modern Coke comes in cans or fountain cups, the original drink was bottled up in beautiful glassware—most of which can still be found today! Many collectors boast that the iconic contour-fluted style of the old Coca-Cola bottle is one of the most recognizable shapes in the world, seen everywhere, from vintage ads to Andy Warhol paintings. 

What Makes an Old Coke Bottle Worth Anything? 

Although they typically aren’t worth a ton (with the rarest Root Glass Modified prototype being the exception), they’re one of the most collected items from the company. The main element that determines value is the color of the glass. Amber is the rarest and most valuable glass color, while clear or blue-green bottles are a dime a dozen. 

Alternative Ways to Use Old Coca-Cola Bottles

DIY candlesticks: place a single taper candle firmly in the opening of the old Coke bottle and light it for dreamy vintage décor (especially if you love the cottagecore aesthetic).

Flower vase: pull a few fresh blooms from your garden and use an old Coca-Cola bottle as a makeshift vase.

Sand souvenir: the next time you travel to your dream beach vacation, bring home sand and label the bottle to remember your trip fondly.

3. Decorative Vintage Coca-Cola Trays

One of the most popular types of Coca-Cola collectibles was first introduced in the early 20th century: decorative tin trays. Each one would show a delicate and almost Victorian illustration of a man or woman sipping from an old Coke bottle or posed with the logo. 

Timeless and versatile, these collectible trays are often worth anywhere from $50 to $100, depending on condition. If you’re interested in learning to sell antiques, collecting the trays is a worthwhile endeavor. 

When you find a vintage Coca-Cola tray, use it to corral remotes on your coffee table, hold perfumes and lotions on your vanity, or even as dynamic wall art—the options are endless. Just make sure you determine that it’s an authentic tray and not a copycat!

Where to Buy the Best Coca-Cola Collectibles?

While online auction sites never fail, the best and most thrilling way to shop for Coca-Cola collectibles is at your local antique mall! At our Algonquin, Melbourne, and Highland antique malls, each location is home to hundreds of vendors, each with their own niche and specialized collections on display. Whether there’s a booth full of only rare and vintage Coca-Cola items or a few randomly sprinkled out throughout the store, stopping by to browse is a fun way to begin your collection. 

From old Coke bottles to vintage signs and more, there’s a whole world of Coca-Cola collectibles waiting to be discovered. Head to your nearest Illinois antique mall and see for yourself!