What makes something collectible?
Beer packaging and marketing has undergone numerous drastic changes over the years and decades so it's a simple fact that many items from throughout the history of brewing are worthy of collecting. Not everything is, though.
Here are some guidelines for determining the value of collectible items, even if you are buying items brand new:
As it goes with all antiques, the original value and quality of a product can be a strong determiner of its antecedent value. For example, items made of metal or solid wood will retain a higher value than items made of cheap plastic. Today's more permanent, formed thermoplastics may have longer lasting value but this is yet to be determined.
Some basic factors determining the value of antiques and collectibles from the beer industry
Rarities. This is another obvious, but worth noting. If something was produced in a small quantity, perhaps due to a manufacturing error or to the discontinuation of stock or brand name. These are the kinds of factors that will help increase the long-term collectability of an item.
Long standing brand quality. On the other hand, if a brand has long history and a collection of "fans" this can also make items branded as such highly collectible.
The age and condition of any item is going to be an important factor, of course. If something is from the early 19th century and it is still in good condition then obviously it is going to have great value.
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These are some simple intuitive reasons for long lasting value. Let's take a look at some deeper, varied reasons.
Absolutely unique appeal. A great example of something uniquely appealing is the Budweiser diecast piggy bank. Incredibly, this solid metal unique rarity sold for under $100, even though it was the first in Buds' bank series and the item was in mint condition.
This diecast Budweiser-branded 1913 Model T Van sold for US $99.99, via BeerClassifieds.com on December 14th, 2010. Someone got a really neat Christmas gift, wethinks.
Association with celebrity. This is a great way to increase the value of any collectible or antique of course. If you can make the association relevant, this is all the better. For example, if a celebrity has been associated with a brand of beer and you have collectible items with that brand, get a picture of the celebrity with the item or sign paraphernalia related to the item. If you have him or her sign the actual item this may in fact decrease its value since this could be considered defacement, so this is not recommended.
Retaining all original packaging. This is a great way to retain and even add to the value of an item. If you have the original packaging and all its attendant information, this can be a very good way of adding full value to a beer antique or collectible item.
The more time you spend in the world antique beer collectibles the more you will learn about valuation, of course. It's great to watch television shows such as "Antiques Roadshow," "American Pickers" or international versions of these, such as "The Canadian Antiques Roadshow." For further reference you can view this video below if you have not seen it before. It does have some nominally helpful commentary as well.
