Coca-Cola Sign Language Tracks American Culture
"Coca-Cola" and "Coke" are among the most recognized brands in the world, in no small part due to the use of signs as part of their advertising. The company's signs have ranged from the common tin Coca-cola sign to the enormous electronic one seen today in New York City. But the red Coke sign is seen everywhere and has quite a history in varieties and types.
Tin Coca-Cola signs were affordable and many were made. As a result, these can still be found much less expensive than their porcelain counterparts.
As the years have passed, the more durable porcelain Coca-Cola signs held up better to the elements compared to their painted tin counterparts. As a result, the enameled versions are in much greater demand. And with greater demand comes greater prices too, naturally.
Wooden signs were also in use, and the older these are, the more collectible and expensive the pricing. Wood simply does not hold up as well as metal and a wooden Coca-cola is not as likely to survive and even less likely to be in excellent condition. A fortunate find is a sign that was put away in a barn or attic or storeroom and protected from light and the elements.
As to the mural type of Coke signs painted on walls, these generally are not of typical collector interest. The sheer size of some of many Coke signs make them difficult to transport and display. Hence, some smaller Coca-Cola button signs bring more than their larger counterparts.
It is remarkable just how many different types of signs were produced in the company's history. Perhaps it is this great diversity that adds to the collecting appeal of Coca-Cola signs. The round "button" sign is always a favorite among collectors and is available in many sizes. The porcelain "fountain service" flange signs are also quite popular. Additional choices for the Coca-Cola collector to consider include the rectangular, square, die-cut, cardboard, paper (festoon) and even glass (mirror) signs. Some collectors like to get an example from each category for their Coke collection.
Some Coca-Cola signs reflect the times and their styles and events. Coke "went to war" and WWII era Coca-Cola signs reflect the war effort. Since its beginning, Coke advertising has reflected the history and culture around it. Coke also commissioned famous artists like Norman Rockwell to do sign art, so many are not just ads but artworks to cherish as well.
Soda-Pop-Collectibles.com features memorabilia from Coca-Cola, Pepsi, Mountain Dew, 7UP, and many other soft drink makers.
Published November 1st, 2007