Old Crow Chess Set Value Guide

The 1969 Old Crow Chess Set is a landmark piece of American bourbon marketing, featuring functional whiskey decanters as individual chess pieces. Produced by the Old Crow Distillery, this set is highly prized for its creative fusion of mid-century barware and competitive gaming history.

What affects the value of Old Crow Chess Set?

• Completeness of the set, as missing pieces significantly reduce the $250 market value.
• Condition of the ceramic and glass, specifically looking for chips, cracks, or fading labels.
• Presence of the original whiskey inside the decanters and the integrity of the factory seals.
• The inclusion of the original game board and any period-correct promotional packaging.

How to Identify Old Crow Chess Set?

• Verify the 1969 production date often found on the base of the ceramic or glass decanters.
• Check for the original Old Crow Distillery branding and labels on the individual chess piece bottles.
• Ensure the set includes the specific character designs unique to the 1969 promotional release.
• Look for the presence of original tax stamps or seals on the bottle necks to confirm age.

History of Old Crow Chess Set

The Old Crow Chess Set was a promotional item released by the Old Crow Distillery. These sets often featured unique designs for each chess piece, with the decanters containing whiskey. They are highly sought after by collectors due to their novelty and the brand's historical significance in American bourbon production. The 1969 set, in particular, is a well-known example of this creative marketing strategy.