1988 Coca-Cola 'A Coke and a Smile' Round Metal Tin Canister
The Coca-Cola Company (Produced by Bristol Ware or The Tin Box Company) · Collectibles & Antiques > Advertising Memorabilia > Soda
Era / Decade
Late 1980s (specifically 1988, as indicated by the copyright date often found on the side or bottom rim).
Material
Tin-plated steel with lithographed printed graphic and matte black finish.
Condition
Fair to Good. Visible paint loss and white scuffing along the lower rim and base. Some minor scratches on the top lid graphic. Interior likely has minor oxidation typical for this age.
Demand Level
Low. Coca-Cola memorabilia from the 1980s is highly common and the market is currently saturated with these specific 'nostalgia' tins.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
Low: $5.00 | Mid: $10.00 | High: $15.00 (Top end pricing only if in mint condition).
Estimated Retail Value
$5.00 - $8.00 (Current asking price in photo is $5.00, which is accurate for its era).
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay 'Sold' listings show identical tins selling for $6.00 to $12.00 including shipping. Multi-item lots of similar 1980s Coca-Cola tins often sell for $20.00 to $30.00.
Description
Vintage 1988 Coca-Cola round decorative tin featuring a nostalgic 1940s-style illustration of a couple sharing sodas. The tin features a black base and a warm-toned lithographed lid. Measuring approximately 6 inches in diameter, this piece is perfect for kitchen storage or as a desktop catch-all. A classic piece of Americana decor.
Key Features
Nostalgic 'Golden Age' imagery, official Coca-Cola licensed product, affordable entry-level collectible, attractive matte black and sepia-tone color palette.
Authenticity Indicators
Marked with official Coca-Cola trademark and copyright date (1988) on the edge. High confidence in authenticity as these were mass-produced in the 80s and rarely faked.
Flaws to Note
Significant scuffing and paint loss on the black lower portion; minor surface scratches on the lid artwork. These are permanent but typical of vintage utility tins.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Facebook Marketplace for local pickup to avoid shipping costs exceeding the value. Otherwise, eBay as a 'Buy It Now' alongside other Coca-Cola items.
Selling Tips
Avoid high shipping costs; this item is best sold as a bundle with other soda memorabilia to make the shipping worth it. Use keywords like 'Americana,' 'Kitchen Decor,' and 'Craft Storage.' Clean with a dry cloth only to avoid further paint lifting.