Old Avon Bottles: Value Guide & Collector's Price List (2024)

Vintage Avon bottles have captured the fascination of collectors for decades, transforming from everyday beauty products into sought-after collectibles. With their unique designs ranging from cars and animals to elegant decanters, these bottles tell the story of American consumer culture from the mid-20th century onward. But how much are these nostalgic treasures actually worth today?

While many collectors hold fond memories of their grandmother’s Avon collection, the market reality can be quite different from nostalgic expectations. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the true value of old Avon bottles, identify which ones command premium prices, and provide practical advice for both collectors and sellers.

Most common Avon bottles from the 1960s-1980s typically sell for $5-25 each, with many on the lower end of that range. However, certain rare pieces, particularly those from the early 20th century or limited production runs, can still command significant premiums.

The market follows typical collector trends: rarity, condition, and historical significance drive value. Complete sets and bottles with original contents or packaging generally bring higher prices.

1. Age and Rarity

Bottles from the early 20th century, particularly those produced when Avon was still the California Perfume Company (pre-1939), are typically more valuable. Limited edition releases or discontinued designs also command premium prices.

2. Condition

As with most collectibles, condition significantly impacts value. Bottles should ideally have:

3. Design and Aesthetic Appeal

Certain themes tend to be more collectible than others:

• Vehicle designs (cars, motorcycles, trains)
• Animal figurals (especially birds and dogs)
• Holiday-themed bottles (Christmas, Easter)
• Unique or whimsical shapes (telephones, chess pieces)
• Bottles with moving parts or special functions

4. Complete Sets

Collections of related bottles often sell for more than individual pieces. For example, complete sets of presidential bottles, state birds, or holiday series command premium prices when kept together.

David H. McConnell founded the company that would later become Avon. Early bottles from this era are extremely rare and valuable.

The company officially changed its name to Avon Products, Inc. Pre-1939 bottles bearing the California Perfume Company name are highly sought after.

Avon began producing distinctive figural bottles that would become collectible classics. The company's marketing encouraged customers to keep and display empty bottles.

The height of Avon's creative bottle designs, with numerous vehicle, animal, and novelty shapes. Many of today's collectibles date from this era.

As collecting trends changed, values for many common Avon bottles declined. The market became saturated with common designs.

Modern collectors focus on specific rare pieces rather than accumulating large quantities of common bottles.

Looking for Markings

Most Avon bottles will have identifying marks:

1. Base markings: Look for “Avon” or “Avon Products Inc.” molded into the glass base
2. Date codes: Some bottles have production dates or batch numbers
3. Original labels: Paper labels often include the product name and production information

Using Reference Materials

Several resources can help with identification:

• Collector’s guides: Books like “The Encyclopedia of Avon Collectibles” provide detailed information
• Online databases: Websites dedicated to Avon collecting often feature catalogs of historical designs
• Collector forums: Connecting with experienced collectors can provide insights on unusual pieces

Online Marketplaces

• eBay: The largest audience but competitive pricing; works well for rare bottles
• Etsy: Good for vintage items; attracts buyers willing to pay premium prices for quality pieces
• Facebook Marketplace/Groups: Can connect you with local collectors; typically lower fees
• Ruby Lane: Specializes in antiques and collectibles; higher-end audience

Physical Locations

• Antique malls: Booth rentals allow display of larger collections
• Consignment shops: Sells on your behalf for a percentage
• Collector shows: Direct sales to enthusiast audience
• Estate sales: Option for selling entire collections

Presentation Matters

• Clean bottles carefully (without removing original labels)
• Photograph in good lighting from multiple angles
• Show any markings, labels, or special features
• Include original boxes and packaging if available

Research Before Pricing

• Check completed sales on eBay (not just asking prices)
• Join collector groups to understand current market trends
• Consider selling rare pieces individually and common bottles in lots
• Be realistic about values based on actual sales data

Marketing Your Collection

• Highlight rare or unusual pieces
• Mention any historical significance
• Tell the story of your collection
• Emphasize complete sets or themed groupings

Collection Strategy

Rather than accumulating large quantities of common bottles, focus on:

1. Early pieces: Pre-1960s bottles are increasingly scarce
2. Limited editions: Bottles produced in small quantities
3. Complete sets: Full series collections maintain higher value
4. Excellent condition: Only purchase pieces in top condition
5. Original packaging: Boxes and paperwork significantly increase value

Storage and Preservation

Proper care extends the life and maintains the value of your collection:

• Display away from direct sunlight to prevent color fading
• Use glass cleaner specifically formulated for antiques
• Store in temperature-controlled environments
• Handle with clean hands to prevent oils transferring to glass
• Consider archival storage for extremely valuable pieces

To determine a vintage Avon bottle's value, consider these factors:

1. **Age**: Older bottles (especially pre-1960s) tend to be more valuable
2. **Rarity**: Limited editions or discontinued designs command higher prices
3. **Condition**: Bottles without chips, cracks, or significant wear are worth more
4. **Completeness**: Original boxes, paperwork, and unused contents increase value
5. **Market demand**: Check recent completed sales on eBay or Etsy for similar items

For particularly rare or unusual pieces, consider consulting with an antique appraiser who specializes in collectibles or perfume bottles.

The most collectible and valuable Avon bottles include:

- **Pre-1939 California Perfume Company bottles**
- **Bottle Eau de Cologne Impériale Guerlain** (1950) - Worth up to $550
- **English Cut Glass Victorian Perfume Bottle** (1903) - Worth up to $500
- **Victorian Avon Silver Glass Perfume Bottle** (1899) - Worth up to $230
- **Rare Vintage Avon Wild Country AfterShave Blue Motorcycle** (1970) - Worth up to $180
- **Limited edition commemorative bottles**
- **Complete themed sets** (presidential busts, state birds, etc.)
- **Unusual or whimsical designs with moving parts**

Vehicle-shaped bottles (cars, trains, motorcycles) are particularly popular with collectors.

Yes, there is still an active market for vintage Avon bottles, though it's more selective than in previous decades. Collectors tend to focus on:

1. Rare or unusual designs
2. Pre-1970s bottles
3. Limited edition pieces
4. Complete sets
5. Bottles in excellent condition with original packaging

While common Avon bottles from the 1970s-1980s have declined in value, there remains steady interest in high-quality, rare pieces from dedicated collectors. Online marketplaces like eBay and Etsy continue to be active venues for buying and selling vintage Avon items.

Yes, several Avon collector communities exist where enthusiasts share information, buy, sell, and trade bottles:

1. **Avon Collectors Club on Facebook** - An active group with over 2,000 members who share information and collections

2. **International Perfume Bottle Association** - While not exclusively for Avon, this organization includes many Avon collectors

3. **Local collector groups** - Many regions have local chapters or informal meetups

4. **Online forums and message boards** - Websites dedicated to antiques and collectibles often have sections for Avon collectors

These communities can be valuable resources for authentication, valuation, and connecting with potential buyers or sellers.

Clean bottles generally present better, but improper cleaning can damage valuable pieces. Follow these guidelines:

- Use mild soap and lukewarm water for glass surfaces
- Avoid abrasive cleaners that might scratch the glass
- Clean carefully around paper labels to avoid damage
- Never soak bottles with paper labels or painted details
- Use a soft cloth or cotton swabs for detailed areas
- Allow to air dry completely before storing or photographing

For extremely valuable or delicate bottles, consider consulting a professional or leaving them uncleaned to avoid potential damage.

Current Market Trends

• Selective collecting has replaced mass accumulation
• Early pieces (pre-1960s) maintain stronger value
• Crossover appeal items (like vehicle designs that appeal to both Avon and car collectors) command premium prices
• Complete sets typically sell better than individual pieces

Investment Potential

While most Avon bottles should be collected for enjoyment rather than investment, certain categories may appreciate:

1. Extremely rare early pieces with historical significance
2. Items with crossover collecting appeal
3. Pristine examples with complete packaging and documentation
4. Limited production commemorative items

Browse current listings of rare and collectible Avon bottles to get a sense of market prices and available inventory.

Detailed resource for identifying valuable Avon perfume bottles with pricing information and collecting tips.

Explore curated vintage Avon bottles from sellers specializing in collectibles and antiques.

Comprehensive introduction to collecting vintage Avon bottles with identification tips and historical context.

Active community of Avon collectors sharing information, collections, and buying/selling opportunities.

Overview of the rarest and most valuable Avon bottles with current market valuations.

Conclusion: The True Value of Old Avon Bottles

The market for vintage Avon bottles represents a fascinating intersection of nostalgia, design appreciation, and collecting culture. While many common bottles from the 1970s and 80s have modest monetary value, rare pieces continue to command impressive prices from dedicated collectors.

For those with Avon bottles sitting in storage, it’s worth taking the time to identify potential treasures. Focus on age, rarity, condition, and thematic appeal when evaluating your collection. Remember that complete sets, original packaging, and excellent condition significantly enhance value.

Whether you’re looking to sell inherited pieces or build your own collection, understanding the nuances of this specialized market will help you make informed decisions. The most successful collectors focus on quality over quantity, seeking out the rare and unusual rather than accumulating common designs.

With proper research and realistic expectations, navigating the world of vintage Avon bottles can be both financially rewarding and personally satisfying—connecting collectors to a charming piece of American marketing history that spans generations.