Ask The Antique Expert

Learn the fascinating stories behind these readers’ heirlooms—and see what they’re worth today.

 

Coke Is It!

How old is this colorful tray, and what can you tell me about its history? It measures about 13 by 10-1/2 inches, and has been in our family as long as I can remember.
—B.H., Danville, Virginia

A: As far as collectors are concerned, it’s always Coca-Cola! The soft drink, developed as a pick-me-up, was first served in 1886, and promotional pieces soon followed.

It’s easy to see what makes Coke memorabilia so sought after—celebrity endorsements, designs by Norman Rockwell or other famous artists and the enduring popularity of the drink itself.

Serving trays, like yours, were made as early as 1897. The shape can help date a serving tray. Round ones were made from 1897 to 1910; oval ones from 1910 to 1921. After that, the company made rectangular serving trays only.

Your 1936 tray, known as “The Hostess,” shows a glamorous woman in a white satin dress. Actress and cover girl Pauline Moore was the model. With only light scratches and a slight dullness in the color, your tray is in excellent condition. It’s rare to see one without rust from heavy use. In fact, we often look for it to make sure an item is “the real thing,” since the company began making reproductions in the 1970s. It sounds like your family memories of this tray go back further, making its value about $375.