How to Tell If a Vintage Advertisement Is Valuable
Vintage advertisements have become highly sought-after collectibles, with some fetching hundreds or even thousands (Many, many thousands!) of dollars.
But how do you know if that old Coca-Cola or Ford ad tucked away in a spare room or the garage is worth anything?
Whether you’re a collector, a reseller, or just curious, here’s some tips on how to determine if a vintage advertisement is valuable.
1. Age – Older Is (Usually) Better
Like most collectibles, age plays a big role in value. Vintage ads from the 1800s to mid-20th century are often more sought after, especially if they feature early branding or iconic imagery.
Check for publication dates, printer’s marks, or even the fashion and language used in the ad to estimate its age.
It’s always handy to dig a little deeper doing some research on the internet.
2. Brand & Subject Matter – (Big Names Sell!)
Popular brands do sell. People know about them. They are household names. If it’s featured today and you find an old version, it may be worth something.
So not all vintage ads are created equal. Advertisements from famous brands, or featuring cultural icons tend to be worth more.
Some highly collectible categories include the following:
Cars – Ford, Chevrolet, Rolls-Royce, Harley-Davidson.
(Do your research before you create an ad with photos. Some companies can be qui’te Precious’ about their poroduct.
Beverages – Coca-Cola, Pepsi, Guinness, whiskey brands.
Cigarettes & Tobacco – Camel, Lucky Strike, Marlboro. Cigarettes arent activey promoted any more, but there was a time their advertisements were common in magazines and sports promotions.
Some of the bigger brands are still around, but many have gonen by the wayside.
Fashion & Luxury – Chanel, Rolex, Levi’s.
War-Time Propaganda – World War I & II posters.
Technology – Early computers, radios, typewriters.
If your ad features an early Coca-Cola bottle or a 1950s Harley-Davidson motorcycle, you might be holding something special! (Once again just do your research before you advertise it)
3. Condition – The Better, the more money you’ll get for it.
A vintage ad in like-new condition will always get you more money than one that’s torn, stained, or faded. Collectors look for ads that are:
Bright & Vibrant – Colors should still be strong.
No tears or creases – Even minor damage will reduce the value.
No water stains, or spots from mouisture, or browning. This age related damage can lower the appeal.
If you find an old advertisement still in a bound magazine, leave it there! Don’t cut it out! It holds it value more when uncut and original.
4. Rarity – The Fewer, The Better
Some ads were printed in huge numbers, while others were limited to special releases or short-lived campaigns. The rarer the ad, the more valuable it tends to be. This tends to be the case with anything collectible.
A limited run, or limited edition usually fetches more money. Have a look at modern cars. A limited edition will often sell for more money second hand than a standard version of the same car.
How to tell if an ad is rare?
• Was it part of a limited-time promotion?
• Was the brand short-lived or discontinued?
• Is it from an early era of a well-known company?
5. Advertising Medium – Magazines vs. Newspapers vs. Posters
The format, or way the advertisement is layed out can also affect its value.
So: Posters & Billboard signs – Can be high value, especially if they are large and still intact.
Magazine Ads – These are popular among collectors, especially from magasines like ‘LIFE, Vogue, or Playboy. (Magazine ads were one of the main media for advertising before the introduction of television)
Newspaper Ads – Less valuable unless rare or significant old.
A pre-1960s billboard ad or a hand-painted store sign can be worth a small fortune!
6. Artwork & Design – Does It Stand Out?
Some advertisements are valuable simply because of their striking artwork or famous illustrators. Early hand-drawn ads or those with Art Deco or Mid-Century Modern designs tend to be more collectible.
Look for ads featuring:
• Famous illustrators (People you’ve heard of, or if unsure do some research about them on the internet)
• Is the Font style eye-catching?
• Would the art-work look good as a feature of wall art?
7. Demand – Who Wants It?
At the end of the day, an ad is only valuable if someone wants to buy it. The old ‘Supply and Demand.’
Nostalgic Ads or Niche Ads tend to sell well.
Hot markets for vintage ads include:
• Classic car enthusiasts (seeking old Ford, Chevrolet, or Petrol station ads)
• Coca-Cola collectors
• Tobacco associated product collectors (cigarette and cigar memorabilia). There are people who specialise in collecting vintage cigarette lighters. Even sticking to just one brand.
For example the famous ‘Zippo’ lighters produced in the USA from 1933.
• War memorabilia collectors (WWII recruitment ads etc)
• Home décor enthusiasts (vintage kitchen and fashion ads)
How to Sell a Vintage Advertisement
If you’ve got a valuable vintage ad, you could sell it on one of the following:
eBay – This is one of the best platforms for selling vintage ads, with collectors worldwide.
Etsy – Great for vintage and home décor buyers.
Facebook Groups – Niche collector groups often pay top dollar.
There are plenty of ‘Niche’ groups on Facebook. If a category of Ad gets your interest you could join a group. There are plenty of people ready to help you with what can become aan exciting journey!
Auction Houses – If you have something truly rare, consider a specialty auction. Do your research. Once again the internet can be a great tool.
Framing a vintage ad can increase its appeal and selling price, especially for decorative buyers!
Finally - Is Your Vintage Ad Valuable?
If your advertisement is old, well-known, rare, and in good condition, there’s a good chance it’s worth something! Even if it’s not worth a fortune, vintage ads make fantastic décor pieces and are a piece of history worth preserving. So there you go, you might want to keep it.
But If you’re ever in doubt,there are plenty of people around to help you work out what you’ve got!