Veedol Motor Oil Can Value Guide

Vintage Veedol High Detergency Motor Oil 5 Qt. Heavy Duty ...
Veedol Motor Oil Can
Estimated Value
$35 – $50
Period
1950s-1960s
Origin
United States
Materials
Tin, Lithograph
Category
Veedol

This 1950s-1960s Veedol 5-quart tin is a quintessential piece of American petroliana, representing the brand famously used by Charles Lindbergh in the 'Spirit of St. Louis'. Its vibrant lithographed design and association with 'The World's Most Famous Motor Oil' make it a staple for mid-century automotive collectors.

What Is Veedol Motor Oil Can Worth?

The typical price range for Veedol Motor Oil Can is $35 - $50 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

  • Overall condition of the lithograph, specifically the presence of scratches, rust, or fading in the red and green pigments.
  • Structural integrity, including the presence of original lids and the absence of major dents or punctures in the tin.
  • Market demand for 5-quart variations, which often command different prices than standard 1-quart cans.
  • The clarity of the branding and historical logos, which are highly prized by collectors of transatlantic flight memorabilia.

How to Identify Veedol Motor Oil Can?

  • Verify the 5-quart volume size and the specific 'High Detergency' text on the front panel.
  • Check for the authentic lithographed finish on the tin, which should show age-appropriate patina rather than modern digital printing.
  • Look for the classic tri-color palette of red, white, and green consistent with 1950s-60s United States production.
  • Examine the top and bottom seams for period-correct crimping methods used by the Platt & Washburn Refining Company era.

History of Veedol Motor Oil Can

Veedol was a prominent brand of motor oil, first introduced in 1913 by Platt & Washburn Refining Company. It gained significant recognition for its quality and was famously used by the 'Spirit of St. Louis' flown by Charles Lindbergh during the first solo transatlantic flight in 1927. Veedol became known as 'The World's Most Famous Motor Oil' and continued to be a popular choice for motorists for decades, with its distinctive branding becoming a nostalgic symbol of early automotive history.

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