Cocacola bottle 1923 patent

Description of the Item

• Type: Straight-sided Coca-Cola bottle
• Material: Clear or light green glass
• Capacity: 6 1/2 ounces
• Distinguishing Features:
  • Embossed "Coca-Cola Bottling Co." and location "Greencastle, Indiana" on the bottle.
• Large "CC" marking on the bottom.
• Decorative elements include stars and fluting around the bottle.
• Condition: Excellent, no visible chips, cracks, or major wear.
• Date: Based on the 1923 patent marking, this bottle design is from the early 20th century.

Historical Context

1. The 1923 Coca-Cola Patent Bottle:
   • Coca-Cola introduced this design to create a standardized, recognizable bottle. These bottles became iconic due to their unique contours and embossed designs.
   • While straight-sided bottles predate the iconic hobble-skirt design (introduced in 1915), this specific bottle incorporates design elements reflecting the transition to more decorative branding.
2. Greencastle, Indiana Bottling:
   • The location embossing indicates the bottle was made for a Coca-Cola bottling plant in Greencastle, Indiana, which enhances its regional significance and appeal to collectors.
3. Unique Features:
   • The stars and fluting are unusual for Coca-Cola bottles of this era, potentially indicating a special edition or a limited production run. These elements set it apart from standard 1923 patent bottles.

Market Value

1. General Valuation for Coca-Cola Bottles:
   • Straight-sided bottles from specific locations (like Greencastle) generally range from $50 to $150, depending on rarity, condition, and unique features.
2. Unique Characteristics Impacting Value:
   • The stars and fluting significantly enhance its rarity and desirability among collectors. This unique design could increase the value substantially, as bottles with rare embossing or distinctive features often fetch higher prices.
   • Excellent condition further boosts the value.
3. Estimated Value:
   • $200–$300, due to the excellent condition and unique decorative features.
   • Value could rise in auctions or specialized markets targeting Coca-Cola or regional bottle collectors.

Recommendations

1. Authentication and Documentation:
   • Research bottling records for Greencastle, Indiana, and confirm if the bottle was part of a limited run.
   • Consult Coca-Cola collecting groups or antique bottle forums to confirm rarity.
2. Selling Suggestions:
   • Consider listing on platforms like eBay, or Coca-Cola collector forums, with clear photos highlighting the embossed stars, fluting, and "CC" base mark.
   • An auction might yield a higher price if targeted at serious collectors.
3. Preservation:
   • Avoid cleaning with abrasive materials that could damage the glass or embossing.
   • Store in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight to prevent fading or discoloration.

Final Note

This Coca-Cola bottle is a rare and valuable piece due to its unique decorative elements and excellent condition. While the $200–$300 estimate reflects current market trends, an in-person appraisal by a Coca-Cola bottle expert or an antique glass specialist may reveal additional historical significance or market value.