Pepsi-Cola Serving Tray Value Guide
- Period
- 1900-1920
- Origin
- United States
- Materials
- Tin, Metal
- Category
- Pepsi
This early 20th-century Pepsi-Cola serving tray is a premier example of American advertising art from the brand's formative years. Featuring the iconic 'I Love Its Flavor' slogan and a woman enjoying a glass of the 'brain tonic,' it represents the transition of Pepsi from a local pharmacy creation to a national staple.
What affects the value of Pepsi-Cola Serving Tray?
- The preservation of the lithographed image, specifically the clarity of the woman's face and the Pepsi logo.
- Presence of original paint without significant rusting, flaking, or heavy oxidation on the metal surface.
- Structural integrity of the oval rim, including the absence of major dents or warping.
- Rarity of the specific early 1900s design compared to more common mid-century rectangular trays.
How to Identify Pepsi-Cola Serving Tray?
- Verify the oval shape and tin-lithograph construction typical of United States manufacturing between 1900 and 1920.
- Look for the specific 'I Love Its Flavor' slogan paired with the illustration of a woman drinking from a glass.
- Check for the early Pepsi-Cola script logo which differs significantly from modern iterations.
- Examine the reverse side for natural age-related patina and wear consistent with antique metalware.
History of Pepsi-Cola Serving Tray
This vintage Pepsi-Cola serving tray showcases an iconic early advertisement for the beloved soft drink. Pepsi-Cola was first created in 1893 by Caleb Bradham and was originally marketed as a healthy 'brain tonic'. Early advertising materials like this tray are highly sought after by collectors, as they offer a glimpse into the brand's formative years and the evolving aesthetic of American advertising. The image of the woman with 'I Love Its Flavor' slogan highlights the charming and often elaborate artistic styles popular during the early 20th century.
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