| 1950s Vendo 81 Pepsi Machine |
$3,000-$9,000 |
Fully restored, working condition |
| 1950s Vendo 81 Pepsi Machine |
$1,500-$4,000 |
Original unrestored condition |
| 1960s Vendorlator VMC-33 |
$1,200-$4,000 |
Working condition with original features |
| 1970s Pepsi Vending Machine |
$500-$2,000 |
Functioning cooling and vending mechanisms |
| 1980s Pepsi Vending Machine |
$150-$600 |
Working condition |
| Non-functioning Project Machines |
$50-$300 |
Any era, requires significant restoration |
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</table>
Recent eBay listings confirm these values, with a working 1960s Vendorlator model in excellent condition listed for $3,750, and many project machines in the $150-$300 range.
According to a valuation from JustAnswer Antiques, a vintage 1960s Vendorlator vending machine in good condition holds a market value of $1,200-$1,400. This aligns with our current research findings, although fully restored examples can fetch significantly more.
Vendo 81 (1950s)
The Vendo 81 is arguably the most iconic and valuable vintage Pepsi vending machine. Produced in the 1950s, these tall, rounded-corner machines with chrome details and vibrant Pepsi branding epitomize mid-century design. Key features include:
- Capacity for 81 bottles (hence the name)
- Rounded design with chrome trim
- Classic red, white, and blue Pepsi branding
- Coin mechanism typically accepting nickels and dimes
- Bottle-opening feature on the front
Fully restored Vendo 81 models in working condition regularly sell for $3,000-$9,000, with rare variants or exceptionally pristine examples commanding even higher prices.
Vendorlator VMC Models (1950s-1960s)
Vendorlator Manufacturing Company produced several popular Pepsi machine models:
- VMC-27: Iconic 1950s model with curved sides
- VMC-33: Popular 1960s model with more rectangular design
- PC-27B: Compact design popular in smaller establishments
According to collectors on the Arcade Museum forums, unrestored Vendorlator machines in working condition can be found for as little as $75-$200, but fully restored examples sell for $1,000-$3,000.
Evolution of Pepsi Vending Machines
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1940s
Early Cooler Models
The first Pepsi vending machines were simple coolers with mechanical coin operations. These early models are extremely rare and valuable to collectors.
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1950s
Golden Age: Vendo 81 & VMC Models
The most collectible era featuring iconic designs like the Vendo 81 and early Vendorlator models with rounded, streamlined styling and chrome accents.
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1960s
Rectangular Revolution
Designs shifted toward more rectangular shapes with the Vendorlator VMC-33 becoming the standard. These machines incorporated more modern cooling systems.
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1970s
Modern Vending Era
Introduction of electronic components and can dispensers alongside traditional bottle machines. Designs became more utilitarian and less decorative.
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1980s-Present
Contemporary Machines
Modern electronic vending machines with digital displays and payment systems. These have limited collectible value compared to vintage models.
Vintage Pepsi Machine Condition Checklist
Use this checklist to assess the condition of any vintage Pepsi vending machine
Condition Rating Scale
Collectors typically rate vintage Pepsi machines on the following scale:
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Mint (9-10/10): Nearly perfect, fully restored or exceptionally preserved original. All systems work, all cosmetic elements pristine.
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Excellent (7-8/10): Minor wear consistent with age. Working mechanics, very good cosmetic condition with only minor imperfections.
-
Good (5-6/10): Shows noticeable wear but still presentable. May need some mechanical work, but largely complete and original.
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Fair (3-4/10): Significant wear, may have missing parts or non-working systems. Requires restoration but still restorable.
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Poor (1-2/10): Major damage, numerous missing components, extensive rust or deterioration. Project machine only.
A Vendorlator VMC-33 in excellent condition with working cooling and vending mechanisms can be worth 3-4 times more than an identical model in poor, non-working condition.
To Restore or Not?
This is a crucial decision for any vintage Pepsi machine owner. Consider:
- Machines in original condition with good original paint and decals may be more valuable left unrestored
- Non-working machines almost always benefit from mechanical restoration
- Heavily damaged or repainted machines are generally good restoration candidates
Professional vs. DIY Restoration
Restoration costs typically range from $1,500-$5,000 when done professionally, depending on the machine’s condition and the extent of work required. DIY restoration is possible but requires specialized knowledge of:
- Vintage refrigeration systems
- Period-correct paint formulations and techniques
- Authentic decal reproduction
- Coin mechanism repair
- Cabinet repair and metal finishing
Restoration Impact on Value
Finding Authentic Parts
Locating original parts can be challenging but is crucial for an authentic restoration. Resources include:
- Specialty vending machine restoration companies
- Online forums like VENDiscuss
- eBay and other auction sites for donor machines
- Vending machine collector groups
Best Places to Sell
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eBay: The largest marketplace for vintage vending machines, with a dedicated Vintage Pepsi Machine category. Offers the widest audience but also the most competition.
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Facebook Marketplace: Good for local sales to avoid shipping costs. Search shows many Pepsi machines for sale at various price points.
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Specialty Auction Houses: For rare or exceptionally valuable models, auction houses that specialize in advertising memorabilia or Americana may be your best option.
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Collector Forums: Sites like the Arcade Museum Forums have classified sections where serious collectors gather.
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Antique Malls and Shows: Physical locations where collectors and dealers meet to buy and sell vintage items.
Best Places to Buy
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eBay and Online Marketplaces: The largest selection, but inspect photos carefully and ask detailed questions.
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Local Classifieds: Often the best source for “barn find” machines at reasonable prices that haven’t been picked up by dealers.
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Specialty Dealers: Companies like The Games Room Company offer fully restored machines with warranties, albeit at premium prices.
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Estate Sales and Auctions: Great places to find undiscovered machines, sometimes at bargain prices.
Shipping Considerations
Vintage Pepsi machines are extremely heavy (often 300-800 pounds) and require specialized shipping. Options include:
- Freight shipping (typically $300-$700 depending on distance)
- White glove delivery services
- Local pickup (preferred when possible)
Be sure to factor shipping costs into your purchase or sale price, as they can be substantial.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vintage Pepsi Machines
How can I tell how old my Pepsi machine is?
To determine the age of your Pepsi vending machine:
- Look for a manufacturer’s plate or serial number (usually inside the door or on the back)
- Check the style of the Pepsi logo on the machine (the logo changed several times over the decades)
- Note design elements like rounded corners (typically 1950s) versus square designs (typically 1960s-70s)
- Research the specific model number online through collector forums
Manufacturers like Vendo and Vendorlator typically used different model numbers for different years of production.
Are old Pepsi machines worth more than Coca-Cola machines?
Generally, vintage Coca-Cola machines tend to command slightly higher prices than equivalent Pepsi machines, due to Coca-Cola's broader collector base and more aggressive brand protection over the years. However, rare Pepsi models in exceptional condition can still reach premium values.
The difference is typically 10-20% for comparable models from the same era and in similar condition. The most important value factors remain the age, model, condition, and functionality rather than brand alone.
What should I do if my vintage Pepsi machine doesn't work?
If your vintage Pepsi machine isn't operational:
- Determine whether you want to restore it to working condition or sell it as-is
- For non-working machines you plan to sell, be transparent about condition issues
- If pursuing restoration, consult a specialist in vintage vending machine repair rather than a standard refrigeration technician
- Consider that refrigeration systems often need updates to modern, environmentally friendly coolants
Non-working machines typically sell for 25-50% of the value of working examples, but restoration costs can easily exceed this difference.
Will Pepsi give me a vending machine?
According to [G&J Pepsi](https://www.gjpepsi.com/services/), Pepsi distributors do provide modern vending machines to qualified businesses at no cost. However, these are contemporary machines for commercial use, not vintage collectibles.
The distributor typically provides the machine, maintenance, and inventory while the host location provides space and electricity. The host may earn commission on sales. This arrangement applies only to current commercial machines, not collectible vintage models.
How much does it cost to restore a vintage Pepsi machine?
Restoration costs for vintage Pepsi machines vary widely based on the machine's condition and the extent of restoration desired:
- Basic mechanical restoration (cooling system, vending mechanism): $800-$1,500
- Complete mechanical and cosmetic restoration: $2,000-$5,000
- Museum-quality restoration with all original-style components: $4,000-$8,000
DIY restoration is possible but requires specialized knowledge and tools. Parts can be difficult to source and may need to be custom fabricated for rare models.
What's the most valuable vintage Pepsi machine model?
The 1950s Vendo 81 Pepsi machine is generally considered the most valuable standard production model, with fully restored examples selling for $3,000-$9,000. Rare prototype models or machines with unique histories or features can command even higher prices at specialized auctions.
Early Ideal 55 coolers from the 1940s are also highly collectible, especially when found with original features intact. The most valuable examples are those with documented provenance or unique historical significance.
Conclusion: Investing in Vintage Pepsi Machines
Vintage Pepsi vending machines offer a unique combination of nostalgic appeal, decorative value, and investment potential. Whether you’re a serious collector, a retro design enthusiast, or someone looking to add a conversation piece to your space, understanding the value factors and market trends is essential.
The market for these collectible machines remains strong, with the most desirable models from the 1950s and early 1960s consistently appreciating in value. While restoration can be costly, a properly restored vintage Pepsi machine not only serves as a functional piece of history but can also be a sound investment that brings joy to its owner.
Before purchasing or selling a vintage Pepsi machine, take time to thoroughly research the specific model, verify its condition, and understand the costs associated with restoration or maintenance. With proper care and appreciation, these iconic pieces of Americana can continue to bring refreshment and enjoyment for decades to come.
