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American Mid-Century Period Coca-Cola Vendo K Series Bottle Vending Machine
LANGUAGE UNLOCK
Glossary Roundup
Original Presentation Script
Ever wonder about the golden age of vending? This isn't just a machine; it's a time capsule.
This is an authentic American Mid-Century Coca-Cola Vendo K Series bottle vending machine.
Notice the iconic '6¢' price, a rare detail placing it squarely in the mid-1950s.
Its original Vendo and Cavalier plates confirm its period authenticity, a true collectible.
These machines are highly sought after, embodying classic Americana and advertising history.
What's your favorite vintage soda? Let us know!
Used for this report's TTS and avatar presentation.
Item Report
American Mid-Century Period Coca-Cola Vendo K Series Bottle Vending Machine
By:The Vendo Company (Kansas City, Missouri) / Cavalier Corporation (Chattanooga, Tennessee)
Style:Mid-Century Americana / Industrial Design
Origin:United States of America
Materials:Painted steel, aluminum, various metals for internal mechanisms, rubber/plastic components
Age:Circa 1955-1959
Condition:Good (shows significant paint loss, scratches, and some surface rust consistent with age and use, but appears structurally sound and largely complete. Not professionally graded.)
Value:Authentic: $1,500 - $3,000; Reproduction: N/A (this is an authentic period piece, reproductions of this specific model are uncommon and would have significantly lower value if they existed)
A classic American mid-century Coca-Cola bottle vending machine, model Vendo K series, featuring a bright red painted metal body with 'Drink Coca-Cola In Bottles' and 'ICE COLD' lettering. It includes a coin slot for 6¢, a bottle opener, and a coin return. The interior reveals a rotating rack designed to hold multiple glass bottles. The machine shows significant signs of age and use, consistent with its period.
Curator Questions
Curated by Jade
Assessment:
This is an authentic and iconic piece of American advertising and industrial history. The '6¢' price point is a key indicator of its mid-1950s origin, a relatively short period in Coca-Cola's pricing history. While showing wear and tear, its originality and completeness make it a desirable collectible for enthusiasts of vintage Americana and Coca-Cola memorabilia. Restoration would likely enhance its value.
Individual Images:
whole vending machine front view
detail of upper front
detail of Vendo nameplate
detail of Cavalier nameplate
interior view with door open
detail of bottle opener and coin return
detail of coin slot and door handle
detail of coin mechanism interior
Provenance:
N/A
Condition:
Good (shows significant paint loss, scratches, and some surface rust consistent with age and use, but appears structurally sound and largely complete. Not professionally graded.)
Identification Score: 100%
The item is clearly identifiable as a Coca-Cola vending machine, with visible branding and model information on the manufacturer's plates.
Authenticity Score: 95%
The presence of original Vendo and Cavalier manufacturer's plates, consistent design elements, the '6¢' pricing, and age-appropriate wear and patina strongly support its authenticity as a period piece. The slight deduction accounts for potential internal component replacements over its long life, though not visible in the provided images.
Image Memory Note
None
None
Keywords
Coca-Cola, vending machine, vintage, antique, soda, advertising, Americana, Vendo, Cavalier, 1950s, collectible, United States of America, industrial design
The report was edited after initial Artmink draft. Original AI draft preserved in Artmink audit history.
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