Introduction to Vintage Old Spice Bottles
The distinctive nautical-themed bottles of Old Spice aftershave and cologne have been bathroom cabinet staples for generations of men. What began as a practical grooming product has evolved into a nostalgic collectible cherished by enthusiasts worldwide. These vintage vessels, with their sailing ships and classic styling, now command surprising values in the collectibles market.
Old Spice, originally produced by the Shulton Company starting in 1937, has a rich history spanning multiple design eras. From early glass decanters with metal stoppers to later ceramic and plastic containers, each iteration tells a story of American men’s grooming evolution. For collectors, these bottles represent more than just fragrance containers—they’re tangible connections to the past.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the fascinating world of vintage Old Spice bottle collecting, from identification techniques to current market values, helping you determine if those old bottles in your cabinet might be worth more than memories.
The History of Old Spice Bottles
Old Spice began as a women’s fragrance in 1937 before the men’s product line was introduced in 1938. The Shulton Company, founded by William Lightfoot Schultz, created what would become one of America’s most recognizable men’s grooming brands. The early bottles featured nautical designs that would become the brand’s signature aesthetic.
Evolution of Old Spice Bottles
- 1937-1940s
First Generation
Early Old Spice bottles featured clear glass designs with cork or metal stoppers. The iconic sailing ship motif was present from the beginning, though simpler than later iterations. - 1950s-1960s
Milk Glass Era
The brand transitioned to distinctive white milk glass bottles with more detailed ship designs. These are among the most collectible today, especially those with metal stoppers. - 1970s-1980s
Transition Period
Glass bottles continued but with plastic caps replacing metal stoppers. Limited edition and special design bottles began appearing during holiday seasons. - 1990-1992
Ownership Change
Shulton sold Old Spice to Procter & Gamble, marking the end of many classic bottle designs. This transition period created several short-run bottle variations. - 1993-Present
Modern Era
Plastic containers became standard, with occasional commemorative glass bottles that reference classic designs. These modern commemoratives have their own collectible market.
The iconic ship designs on Old Spice bottles have a fascinating history of their own. The original vessel depicted was the Grand Turk, though different ships appeared on various products throughout the decades. For serious collectors, identifying the specific ship can help pinpoint the production era.
Identifying Vintage Old Spice Bottles
When assessing Old Spice bottles, several key features help establish authenticity and age:
Material Composition
The material of the bottle is one of the primary indicators of its era:
- Glass Bottles (1937-1980s): Early bottles were clear glass, transitioning to milk glass in the 1950s. These often command higher values, particularly those with metal stoppers.
- Ceramic Bottles (Special Editions): Occasionally, Old Spice produced ceramic decanters for special occasions or as gift items.
- Plastic Bottles (1990s-Present): Modern bottles are primarily plastic, though some special editions still feature glass.
Bottle Markings and Labels
Examine the bottom of the bottle for manufacturer markings:
- “Shulton Inc.” Mark: Indicates production before the Procter & Gamble acquisition in 1990.
- Numerical Codes: Often indicate year of production. For example, a single digit may represent the last number of the year (e.g., “8” for 1958 or 1968).
- Original Labels: Intact paper labels significantly increase value. Look for design elements consistent with the era.
Cap and Stopper Styles
The evolution of bottle closures provides valuable dating information:
- Cork Stoppers (1930s-1940s): Earliest bottles had cork stoppers, rarely found intact today.
- Metal Stoppers (1940s-1960s): Distinctive screw-on metal caps, often featuring ship designs or nautical motifs.
- Plastic Caps (1970s-Present): Transition to plastic closures began in the 1970s.
Vintage Old Spice Bottle Authentication Checklist
Use this checklist to verify the authenticity and era of your Old Spice bottle
- Bottle has proper Shulton manufacturing marks on bottom
- Ship design matches known authentic patterns
- Glass has characteristic color/opacity for its purported era
- Cap/stopper is period-appropriate for the bottle
- Label (if present) shows appropriate design elements and fonts
- Bottle size corresponds to known production measurements
- Glass thickness is consistent with vintage manufacturing
Special and Limited Editions
Old Spice produced numerous commemorative and limited edition bottles that can be particularly valuable:
- Holiday Decanters: Specially designed Christmas bottles from the 1960s-1980s
- Ship Series: Different sailing vessels were featured in specialty collections
- Anniversary Editions: Commemorative bottles marking brand milestones
Factors Affecting Vintage Old Spice Bottle Values
The collectible value of vintage Old Spice bottles depends on several key factors:
Age and Rarity
Generally, older bottles command higher prices, especially those from the early Shulton era:
- Pre-1950s bottles are particularly scarce and valuable
- Limited production runs or discontinued designs increase value
- Regional variants sold only in specific markets can be highly sought after
Condition Considerations
The physical state of the bottle dramatically impacts value:
- Mint condition bottles with no chips, cracks, or label damage command premium prices
- Original contents sometimes increase value, though many collectors prefer empty bottles
- Complete packaging including original boxes can double or triple the bottle’s value
- Intact labels without fading or tearing significantly enhance desirability
Completeness of Set
Some Old Spice products were sold as matching sets:
- Aftershave and cologne pairs in original packaging
- Gift sets with talcum powder, soap, and other accessories
- Matching travel kits with multiple coordinated containers
Vintage Old Spice Market Statistics
Desirability Among Collectors
Certain designs and editions are particularly coveted by collectors:
- Early ship designs with detailed craftsmanship
- Figural bottles shaped like ships, lighthouses, or other nautical themes
- Holiday editions from the 1960s and 1970s
- Bottles with unusual colors or design variations
Original Contents and Packaging
While many collectors focus on the bottles themselves, original elements add value:
- Sealed, unused products may appeal to fragrance enthusiasts
- Original boxes often feature artistic designs that complement the bottles
- Advertising materials like product inserts or pamphlets increase historical significance
Current Market Values for Vintage Old Spice Bottles
The market for vintage Old Spice bottles remains active, with prices varying widely based on the factors discussed. Here’s a current overview of market values:
Vintage Old Spice Bottle Price Ranges
Current market values based on recent sales (2023)
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Recent Auction Highlights
Notable recent sales demonstrate the upper end of the market:
Notable Old Spice Bottle Auction Results
High-value recent sales from online platforms and auctions
| Category | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1950s-1960s Milk Glass Bottles (Metal Stopper) | $25-$55 | Excellent condition with original stopper |
| 1940s Early Glass Bottles | $40-$150 | Rare early designs, particularly with intact labels |
| 1970s-1980s Glass Bottles | $15-$30 | Common designs in good condition |
| Limited Edition/Holiday Bottles | $50-$100+ | Specialty designs, especially with original boxes |
| Complete Gift Sets | $75-$200 | Full sets with multiple matching pieces |
| Sealed/Unused Bottles | $30-$90 | Original product still inside, no evaporation |
| New-in-Box Vintage Bottles | $75-$150 | Mint condition with original packaging |
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Value Variations by Condition
The same bottle can vary dramatically in price based on condition:
- Mint condition (no flaws, original stopper): 100% of base value
- Excellent (minor wear, complete): 75-90% of base value
- Good (noticeable wear, intact): 40-60% of base value
- Fair (chips, cracks, missing pieces): 20-30% of base value
Where to Find and Sell Vintage Old Spice Bottles
Best Places to Purchase Vintage Old Spice Bottles
Collectors can find vintage Old Spice bottles through various channels:
Online Marketplaces
- eBay: Offers the largest selection, with prices ranging from a few dollars to over $100 for rare pieces
- Etsy: Specializes in curated vintage items, often at premium prices
- Facebook Marketplace: Can yield unexpected local finds, often at lower prices
Physical Locations
- Antique Malls: Often have booths specializing in vintage bathroom and grooming items
- Estate Sales: Can produce rare finds at reasonable prices, especially in older neighborhoods
- Flea Markets: Require patience but occasionally yield exceptional bargains
Collector Communities
- Vintage Grooming Forums: Connect with other collectors who may trade or sell duplicates
- Collector Shows: Specialty events focusing on advertising memorabilia or men’s vintage items
Selling Your Vintage Old Spice Collection
If you’re looking to sell, consider these options:
Direct to Collectors
- Specialty Forums: Reach motivated buyers with knowledge of fair values
- Social Media Groups: Dedicated to vintage advertising or men’s grooming collectibles
Online Platforms
- eBay Auctions: Let the market determine value; works well for rare or desirable pieces
- Etsy Store: Better for curated collections with detailed descriptions
- Ruby Lane: Focuses on quality vintage items with informed buyers
Professional Services
- Consignment Shops: Take a percentage but handle marketing and sales
- Auction Houses: For valuable collections or extremely rare pieces
Authentication Resources
Before making significant purchases, consult these resources:
- Reference books like “The Collector’s Guide to Old Spice” for production details
- Online image galleries of authenticated bottles from different eras
- Collector forums where experts can verify authenticity from photographs
Tips for Collecting Vintage Old Spice Bottles
Starting Your Collection
For beginners entering the vintage Old Spice collecting world:
Decide on a Focus
- Era-specific collection (e.g., 1950s milk glass)
- Design-based (different ship designs)
- Complete product lines from specific periods
Set a Budget
- Begin with affordable common pieces
- Save for occasional special acquisitions
- Factor in display and storage costs
Learn to Spot Reproductions
- Study authentic markings and manufacturing details
- Compare weights and glass quality of suspected reproductions
- Be wary of “too good to be true” pristine early bottles
Building Value Over Time
Strategic collecting can increase the worth of your collection:
Focus on Completeness
- Complete sets typically exceed the value of individual pieces
- Seek matching accessories (talcum bottles, soap dishes)
- Acquire original packaging when possible
Condition Priorities
- Invest in the best condition you can afford
- Consider professional cleaning for valuable pieces
- Store properly to prevent further deterioration
Documentation Adds Value
- Keep records of provenance when available
- Research and document the history of unusual pieces
- Create detailed inventory with photographs and notes
Preservation and Display
Proper care ensures your collection maintains its value:
Storage Considerations
- Store away from direct sunlight to prevent fading
- Use stable temperature environments to prevent glass stress
- Consider glass display cases with UV protection
Cleaning Guidelines
- Use mild soap and water for glass bottles
- Avoid harsh chemicals that may damage labels
- Clean stoppers separately with appropriate materials
Display Strategies
- Group by era, design, or type for educational displays
- Use proper lighting that won’t generate heat or UV damage
- Consider rotating displays to prevent extended light exposure
Most Valuable and Rare Old Spice Collectibles
Highly Coveted Rare Pieces
These exceptional items represent the upper tier of Old Spice collecting:
Early Production Rarities
- First-year production bottles (1937-1938): Particularly women’s line before men’s products
- Prototype designs: Test market bottles that never reached full production
- Original promotional first releases: Often given to retailers or as samples
Limited Distribution Items
- International variants: Bottles produced specifically for overseas markets
- Regional exclusives: Special editions distributed only in certain areas
- Military PX specials: Designs created exclusively for military exchange stores
Specialty Design Bottles
- Figural decanters: Bottles shaped as ships, lighthouse, or other nautical themes
- Anniversary commemoratives: Produced for company milestones
- Executive gifts: Special designs not sold to the general public
Investment Potential
Some vintage Old Spice bottles have shown consistent appreciation:
- Early Shulton glass bottles have increased in value approximately 5-10% annually over the past decade
- Limited holiday editions from the 1960s have nearly tripled in value since 2010
- Complete boxed sets in mint condition have become increasingly difficult to find, driving premium prices
Authentication of Valuable Specimens
For high-value bottles, authentication becomes crucial:
- Professional appraisal services can verify age and authenticity
- UV light examination can reveal glass composition characteristic of different eras
- Microscopic examination of manufacturing marks helps identify production period
Complementary Old Spice Collectibles
Related Old Spice Memorabilia
Expand your collection with these complementary items:
Advertising Materials
- Print advertisements: Magazine and newspaper ads spanning decades
- Store displays: Counter cards, stand-ups, and dimensional displays
- Promotional items: Branded giveaways and store incentives
Accessory Products
- Shaving mugs and bowls: Ceramic items with the Old Spice branding
- Soap dishes and holders: Designed to match bottle aesthetics
- Travel kits: Compact sets with miniature bottles
Packaging and Ephemera
- Gift boxes: Seasonal and special occasion packaging
- Product inserts: Instruction sheets and promotional materials
- Catalogs: Shulton product catalogs featuring Old Spice lines
Documentation Resources
Supporting materials enhance collecting knowledge:
Reference Materials
- Collector guides specific to men’s grooming products
- Price guides updated regularly with current values
- Shulton company history books and documents
Visual Archives
- Historical photograph collections showing bottles in period settings
- Manufacturing process documentation
- Design evolution portfolios
These complementary collectibles often tell a more complete story when displayed alongside bottle collections, providing context and historical perspective.
Common Questions About Vintage Old Spice Bottles
How can I tell how old my Old Spice bottle is?
To determine the age of your Old Spice bottle:
- Check the bottom for manufacturer marks - "Shulton Inc." indicates pre-1990 production
- Look for numerical codes that may indicate production year
- Examine the cap/stopper style - metal stoppers are typically pre-1970s
- Compare the bottle shape and design to known production periods
- Note the glass color and opacity - milk glass became standard in the 1950s
The most reliable dating combines multiple indicators rather than relying on a single feature.
What is the most valuable vintage Old Spice bottle?
The most valuable vintage Old Spice bottles are typically:
- First-generation bottles from 1937-1940 with original packaging
- Rare limited editions or promotional designs with low production numbers
- Prototype or test market bottles that never reached full production
- Specialty figural decanters in mint condition with original boxes
Early Shulton bottles with intact original packaging can sell for $150-$200, while extremely rare promotional items have occasionally reached $300+ at specialty auctions.
Is it better to clean old Old Spice bottles before selling them?
Cleaning vintage Old Spice bottles requires caution:
- Light dust can be carefully removed with a soft brush
- For glass without labels, lukewarm water with mild soap is generally safe
- Never use abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals
- Paper labels should not be cleaned with water - consult a professional
- Sometimes original patina adds value and authenticates age
When in doubt, especially with potentially valuable bottles, consult with a collector or preservation specialist before attempting cleaning.
Are Old Spice bottles with product still inside worth more?
The value impact of original contents varies:
- For common bottles, original contents typically add little value
- Rare or early formulations may interest fragrance collectors specifically
- Sealed, unused products generally command premium prices over used ones
- Contents that have darkened or degraded can actually decrease value
- Some collectors prefer empty, cleaned bottles for display purposes
Generally, the bottle design, age, and condition influence value more than remaining contents, unless the formulation itself is historically significant.
How can I display my Old Spice bottle collection safely?
For proper display and preservation:
- Use glass-fronted cabinets to protect from dust while allowing visibility
- Position displays away from direct sunlight to prevent label fading
- Maintain stable temperature and humidity levels
- Install LED lighting instead of incandescent bulbs that generate heat
- Use museum putty for securing bottles against accidental bumps
- Consider UV-filtering glass or acrylic for valuable collections
- Rotate displayed items periodically if cabinet space is limited
The ideal environment maintains consistent temperature and humidity while protecting from UV exposure.
Where is the best place to sell vintage Old Spice bottles?
The best selling venue depends on your bottles and goals:
- eBay: Excellent for common to moderately rare bottles reaching a wide audience
- Etsy: Better for curated, higher-end pieces with detailed descriptions
- Collector Forums: Direct sales to knowledgeable buyers who understand value
- Auction Houses: For extremely rare or valuable collections
- Antique Malls: Booth rentals allow physical display but require time investment
Online platforms typically reach more potential buyers, while in-person sales at shows or specialty events may yield higher prices for exceptional pieces.
Are reproduction Old Spice bottles common in the market?
While not as prevalent as in some collectible markets, reproduction and fake vintage Old Spice bottles do exist:
- Some modern commemorative editions intentionally mimic vintage designs
- Actual counterfeits typically focus on the most valuable early bottles
- Signs of reproduction include incorrect weight, modern glass composition, poor detail quality
- Suspect bottles often have inconsistent aging patterns or artificially created wear
Studying authentic examples, comparing glass weight and quality, and learning proper marking patterns are the best defenses against purchasing reproductions.
What should I look for when buying vintage Old Spice bottles?
When purchasing vintage Old Spice bottles, prioritize:
- Condition: Check for chips, cracks, label damage, and stopper integrity
- Authenticity: Verify correct markings for the purported production period
- Completeness: Original stoppers, caps, and packaging significantly increase value
- Rarity: Research how common the particular design was during its production period
- Price Comparison: Check recent completed sales for similar items
- Seller Knowledge: Established collectors or specialty dealers often provide more accurate information
Take time to research before making significant purchases, especially for higher-priced rare examples.
External Resources for Old Spice Collectors
LoveToKnow: Old Spice Collectibles
Comprehensive guide to Old Spice collectibles including detailed information on bottle values and identification techniques.
Etsy Vintage Old Spice Marketplace
Curated selection of vintage Old Spice bottles and related collectibles from sellers specializing in vintage men's grooming items.
eBay Old Spice Bottle Listings
Active marketplace featuring wide variety of Old Spice bottles with current market pricing and auction history.
Badger & Blade Vintage Aftershave Forum
Collector discussion forum with expert identification assistance and authentication guidance for vintage men's grooming products.
PicClick Old Spice Bottle Directory
Visual search engine for finding specific Old Spice bottle designs across multiple online marketplaces with price comparison tools.
Reddit Vintage Grooming Collectibles
Community discussions on finding, authenticating, and valuing vintage grooming products including Old Spice bottles.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Vintage Old Spice Bottles
The charm of vintage Old Spice bottles extends beyond simple nostalgia. These artifacts represent an important chapter in American consumer culture and men’s grooming history. Their distinctive nautical designs, evolving over decades, created an iconic brand identity that resonates even with those too young to have used the original products.
For collectors, the hunt for rare variants and pristine examples continues to provide both the thrill of discovery and the satisfaction of preserving cultural history. As original examples become increasingly scarce, particularly those with complete packaging, their value is likely to continue appreciating.
Whether you’re drawn to these bottles for their investment potential, historical significance, or simply the personal connection to memories of fathers and grandfathers, vintage Old Spice collecting offers accessible entry points for beginners while still providing depth for serious collectors.
By understanding the identification markers, value factors, and preservation techniques outlined in this guide, you’re well-equipped to build a meaningful collection that captures a distinctive slice of Americana—one sailing ship at a time.
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| Item | Price | Date | Auction House |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1940s Early Ship Design Set | $150 | March 2023 | eBay |
| 1956 Full Bottle with Original Box | $89.99 | January 2023 | Online Specialty Auction |
| 1960s Christmas Ship Decanter Set | $120 | December 2022 | Antique Mall |
| Rare Green Glass Bottle (1966-1991) | $75 | November 2022 | Etsy |