Learn More


Coca-Cola Collectibles: Buyer Beware!

by Daniel Wright

It's pretty safe to say everyone knows Coca-Cola. Since 1886, generations of Americans have grown up with the familiar red and white logo surrounding them at every advertising turn. As Coca-Cola continues to enter our lives through promotions of all types, collectors of the memorabilia realize the importance of this brand even more than those who simply love the drink. Collectors ferret out Coca Cola collectibles to decorate their homes wherever they can find them, always on the prowl for something interesting and fun.

Coca Cola bottles are collected by many people. Coke collectibles bring back happy memories of joyous occasions to all their collectors. Santa Claus and pretty women were used often by Coca Cola marketers in their ads. The Santa that our children know today is believed to be the likeness of the beloved Coca Cola Santa that their marketers brought to life.

Beyond these images, Coke related antiques and collectibles dating back to the late 1800s have priced themselves out of the market for the average collector. Since the 1970s, many Coca Cola collectibles have been fabricated to mimic older items and passed off to those who didn't know better. Numerous trays and several of the calendars have definitely been reproduced and some of them are reported to be so close to authentic, they'll nearly fool an expert.

It's not just among the high ticket pieces that one sees copies, though. There are endless numbers of copies at all levels. There are pieces which were crafted to appear antique even though similar real ones didn't ever exist. These articles are termed "fantasies." They run the gamut from buckles to knives and are frequently found on sale with other collectibles. While the majority of dealers have no intention of knowingly defrauding their clients, these articles do get sold to unwitting new collectors in the guise of actual Coca Cola collectibles.

Many people also collect Pepsi products. It's always best to purchase expensive items from a dealer you know and trust. In order to receive top dollar when you sell your items, it's a good idea to have a dealer authenticate them for you.

Even with all this questionable activity going on, avoiding the pitfalls of reproductions and fantasy items while enjoying Coke collecting remains a possibility. Purchasing affordable items you like, whether they're new or old, offers lovers of Coca Cola memorabilia a way to join in on the fun.

Soda-Pop-Collectibles.com features thousands of soda pop collectibles. Browse hundreds of Coke, Pepsi products and other soda pop memorabilia of every size, shape, and type. Check out our vintage Coca Cola items added daily!

Published February 17th, 2008

Filed in Entertainment, Hobby