Vintage Coca-Cola Tray Values: Collecting Guide & Price Information

Vintage Coca-Cola serving trays have become iconic pieces of Americana that combine advertising history with beautiful artwork. These nostalgic collectibles span more than a century of Coca-Cola marketing and vary significantly in both design and value. Whether you’ve discovered an old tray in your attic or are actively building a collection, understanding what makes these trays valuable can help you make informed decisions about buying, selling, or preserving these pieces of advertising history.

Table of Contents

• The History of Coca-Cola Serving Trays
• Value Factors for Vintage Coca-Cola Trays
• Price Guide by Era
• How to Identify Authentic Coca-Cola Trays
• Where to Buy and Sell Vintage Coca-Cola Trays
• Caring for Your Coca-Cola Tray Collection
• Common Questions About Coca-Cola Tray Values
• External Resources

The story of Coca-Cola trays began in the late 19th century when the company started distributing them to soda fountains and retail establishments. These trays served a dual purpose: functional serving pieces and eye-catching advertisements.

Coca-Cola began producing round serving trays, marking the beginning of what would become a highly collectible line of advertising items.

The round tray design was phased out in favor of oval-shaped trays, which became increasingly popular with soda fountains.

The rectangular tray measuring 13¼ inches by 10½ inches debuted and would eventually become the standard format for decades to come.

This period saw some of the most artistic and now valuable designs, featuring the iconic "Coca-Cola girls" that defined the brand's aesthetic.

Production continued with updated graphics reflecting changing American culture, with many featuring seasonal themes and updated branding.

Coca-Cola authorized reproductions of classic designs, while also producing new commemorative trays that appeal to modern collectors.

The artistic evolution of these trays parallels American cultural changes throughout the 20th century. Early trays featured Victorian-style imagery, while the 1920s brought the famous “flapper girl” aesthetic. By the 1950s, the illustrations reflected post-war American optimism with bright colors and casual scenes of enjoyment.

When assessing the value of a Coca-Cola tray, collectors and appraisers consider these key factors:

Age and Era

Generally, older trays command higher prices, with pre-1920 examples being particularly valuable. Trays from the 1897-1910 period represent the earliest examples and often fetch premium prices. The 1920s-1940s trays are highly sought after for their artistic merit, while those from the 1950s-1970s are more affordable entry points for collectors.

Condition

Condition significantly impacts value, with mint or near-mint trays commanding substantial premiums over those with damage.

Rarity

Some trays were produced in limited quantities or for specific regions, making them harder to find today. Prototype trays or those with production errors can be extremely valuable to serious collectors.

Artistic Appeal

Trays featuring the famous “Coca-Cola girls” or particularly striking artwork often command higher prices. The work of notable illustrators like Hamilton King and Fred Mizen can increase value substantially.

Authenticity

Original vintage trays are worth significantly more than reproductions or commemorative editions. Learning to distinguish authentic pieces from later reproductions is essential for collectors.

This price guide provides general ranges based on current market trends. Individual trays may sell for more or less depending on the specific factors outlined above.

Notable Auction Results

Some exceptional Coca-Cola trays have achieved remarkable prices at auction, demonstrating the high-end market potential for rare pieces:

With the popularity of Coca-Cola collectibles, the market has seen numerous reproductions and replicas. Here’s how to identify authentic vintage trays:

Manufacturer Markings

Original Coca-Cola trays typically include manufacturer information on the back or along the rim. Common manufacturers include:

• American Art Works (AAW)
• The Coca-Cola Bottling Company
• Tray Manufacturing Co.
• Metal Packaging Corporation

Authentic early trays will show appropriate age-related wear on these markings.

Construction and Materials

Authentic vintage trays have specific construction characteristics:

• Pre-1940s trays typically have a metal rolled rim with a seam
• Older trays have a heavier feel than modern reproductions
• Original trays may show appropriate aging of the metal, while reproductions often use artificially distressed surfaces

Copyright Dates and Coca-Cola Logo

The Coca-Cola trademark and copyright information can help date a tray:

• Check for copyright dates that match the purported age of the tray
• The Coca-Cola script logo changed slightly over the decades
• “Trade-mark Registered” text appears in specific formats during different eras

Common Reproductions to Watch For

Many 1970s reproduction trays are now collectible in their own right but should not be misrepresented as originals:

• 1970s reproductions of the 1927 “Flapper Girl” tray
• The “Victorian Lady” (girl in white dress) reproduction series
• “Thirst Knows No Season” reproduction trays from the 1970s-1990s

The Martin Guide to Vintage Coca-Cola Memorabilia (available at earlycoke.com) provides excellent side-by-side comparisons of original trays and reproductions, which is invaluable for collectors.

Online Marketplaces

Popular online platforms for Coca-Cola tray transactions include:

• eBay: The largest marketplace for Coca-Cola collectibles with extensive listings. Browse listings here.
• Etsy: Features both vintage authentic trays and artistic reproductions. Explore Etsy’s selection.
• Bonanza: An alternative online marketplace with dedicated Coca-Cola sections. View Coca-Cola tray listings.
• Poshmark: Increasingly featuring vintage home decor including Coca-Cola items. Check current listings.

Specialized Dealers and Auctions

For higher-end trays, consider these options:

• Antique Advertising: Specialized dealer in Coca-Cola memorabilia with authenticated pieces. Visit their collection.
• Collector Shows: Coca-Cola Collectors Club conventions and antique advertising shows feature vendor areas with expertly authenticated items.
• Auction Houses: For rare and valuable trays, established auction houses provide authentication and wider buyer reach.

Authentication and Appraisal Services

Before buying or selling valuable trays, consider these resources:

• Just Answer Appraisals: Offers expert opinions on Coca-Cola tray values. Get an appraisal.
• Coca-Cola Collectors Club: Members can access expert knowledge from long-time collectors.
• Specialized Appraisers: Some antique dealers specialize in advertising memorabilia and offer authentication services.

Display Considerations

• Avoid Direct Sunlight: UV rays can fade the vibrant colors that make these trays valuable
• Wall Mounting: Use proper display hangers designed for metal trays to avoid stress
• Rotation: Consider rotating displayed trays to minimize light exposure for any single piece

Cleaning and Maintenance

Improper cleaning can significantly reduce value. Follow these guidelines:

• Gentle Dusting: Use a soft, lint-free cloth for regular dusting
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Never use abrasive cleaners or metal polishes
• Minimal Intervention: For valuable trays, less cleaning is often better—patina can be desirable
• Professional Restoration: For valuable trays in poor condition, consult a professional conservator

Storage Solutions

For trays not on display:

• Acid-Free Materials: Use acid-free tissue or cloth to separate stacked trays
• Climate Control: Store in areas with stable temperature and humidity
• Vertical Storage: When possible, store trays vertically rather than stacked to avoid pressure damage

To determine authenticity, examine the manufacturer markings on the back, check the construction details like the rim and weight, and verify copyright dates. Original trays typically have a rolled metal edge with a visible seam, while reproductions often have a smoother finish. The Martin Guide to Vintage Coca-Cola Memorabilia (available at earlycoke.com) offers excellent side-by-side comparisons to help identify authentic trays.

According to expert appraisals, a genuine 1950s "Thirst Knows No Season" Coca-Cola tray in good condition typically values between $75-$80. However, if it's in excellent or mint condition, the value can increase to $100-$150. Note that reproductions of this design were made in the 1970s and typically sell for $15-$30.

Yes, 1970s Coca-Cola trays do have collectible value, though generally less than earlier examples. These trays typically sell for $20-$150 depending on design and condition. Some 1970s trays were reproductions of earlier designs, while others were new designs for that era. The 1973 set of oval reproduction trays has become collectible in its own right, often selling for $20-$50 per tray.

The most valuable Coca-Cola trays tend to be the earliest examples from 1897-1905. A rare 1897 round tray in exceptional condition sold at auction for over $13,000 in 2011. Victorian-era trays with the early Coca-Cola girl imagery in mint condition can fetch $5,000-$10,000 at specialized auctions when authenticated by experts.

Generally, it's best to avoid cleaning vintage Coca-Cola trays before selling them. Improper cleaning can damage the original finish and significantly reduce value. If the tray is simply dusty, a gentle wipe with a soft, dry cloth is sufficient. For valuable or rare trays, consult with a professional conservator before attempting any cleaning or restoration.

Beginning in 1897, Coca-Cola distributed serving trays to soda fountains and retail establishments as both functional items and advertisements. They were used to serve Coca-Cola drinks to customers, creating a branded experience. These trays were given to vendors who sold high volumes of Coca-Cola products, making them effective marketing tools that have now become valuable collectibles representing American advertising history.

Browse one of the largest online marketplaces for buying and selling vintage Coca-Cola trays, with new listings added regularly.

An invaluable resource featuring side-by-side comparisons of original Coca-Cola trays and reproductions to help with authentication.

Specialized dealer offering authenticated Coca-Cola advertising items including rare and valuable serving trays.

Professional appraisal service that can help determine the value of your vintage Coca-Cola trays through expert evaluation.

Comprehensive resource for collectors featuring articles, forums, and listings focused on vintage Coca-Cola trays.

Detailed historical information about the evolution of Coca-Cola serving trays throughout the company's history.

Active community of collectors and antique enthusiasts who discuss and help authenticate Coca-Cola collectibles.

Conclusion: Building a Valuable Coca-Cola Tray Collection

Vintage Coca-Cola trays represent a fascinating intersection of advertising history, American pop culture, and collectible art. Whether you’re a dedicated collector or someone who discovered an old tray in a family attic, understanding the factors that influence value can help you make informed decisions.

For collectors, focusing on condition and authenticity should be paramount. A moderately rare tray in excellent condition will often outvalue a rarer piece in poor condition. Taking time to learn the subtle differences between original trays and reproductions will save you from costly collecting mistakes.

As with many collectibles, the Coca-Cola tray market experiences shifts in popularity and value. Currently, pre-1950s trays continue to appreciate steadily, while the more common 1970s pieces have stabilized at more accessible price points—making them excellent entry points for new collectors.

Whatever your interest level, these colorful pieces of advertising history continue to capture the imagination of collectors worldwide, preserving the artistic legacy of one of America’s most iconic brands.