Vintage Avon Minuteman Cologne Bottle: Worth A Fortune?

The value of vintage Avon bottles varies depending on their rarity, condition, and historical significance. The older the bottle, the more valuable it tends to be. For example, a rare vintage Avon Wild Country Aftershave Blue Motorcycle bottle from the 1970s can be worth almost $200, while a more common 1979 Avon Anniversary Keepsake Bottle may only be worth between $10 and $20.

The condition of the bottle also affects its value. Unopened bottles with their original content and intact stickers tend to be more valuable. Additionally, the presence of the original packaging can further increase the bottle's worth.

When determining the value of a vintage Avon bottle, it is essential to examine it for any markings, such as the word AVON or a mold number. These markings can provide insights into the bottle's age and rarity.

Vintage Avon bottles, especially those from decades ago, have become popular among collectors. Their unique and limited-edition designs, as well as their connection to the iconic Avon brand, make them sought-after collectibles.

Rarity and collectability

Avon has been producing collectible perfume bottles for many years, with their "Avon ladies" selling them door-to-door. The bottles are often designed by companies like Fenton Art Glass and Wheaton Glass Company and are usually produced in limited runs to boost their value as collectibles. They are designed with a variety of subjects in mind, such as animals, flowers, beauty objects, historical figures, and popular films.

Today, vintage Avon bottles are sought-after collectibles. Many people collect them, making them quite popular and causing them to fetch high prices at auction. Their value depends on their rarity, condition, and historical significance. The older the bottle, the more valuable it is. For example, a 1960s Avon Charisma Perfume Full Bottle can be priced at over $170.

The condition of the bottle also plays a crucial role in determining its value. Collectors look for bottles that are unopened, with intact original content and legible stickers. The presence of the original packaging further increases the value. Additionally, bottles that are free from scratches and cracks are more desirable.

Some of the most valuable and rare Avon bottles include the Avon Thomas Flyer 1908 bottle, inspired by the Thomas Motor Company's Model 35 automobile, which is worth around $200. Another rare find is the Vintage Avon Wild Country Aftershave Blue Motorcycle, priced at just under $200. The 1960s Avon Charisma Perfume Full Bottle, a relatively simple bottle from the era of figurine bottles, can also fetch a high price, selling for over $170.

The Avon Old Bottle Dog Shaped, produced in the 1970s, is another valuable piece, worth over $100. It is shaped like a squatting Alsatian dog, with the head forming the lid. The Vintage Avon Pony Wild Country Aftershave Horse-shape Bottle, also produced in the 1970s, is valued at just under $100. This unique bottle is shaped like a horse's head with a keyring in its mouth.

The Vintage Avon Fashion Figurine Gay Nineties Unforgettable Cologne Decanter, inspired by the 1890s, is another rare find worth almost $100. The bottle takes the form of a beautiful woman with manly biceps, standing at 7.5 inches tall. The lower part of the bottle holds the content, while the upper part forms the lid.

The Avon Shaving Brush Endeavour After Shave Lotion Bottle, shaped like a shaving brush, is also a valuable piece, worth over $65. It was likely produced in the 1970s and is in good condition, with no cracks or scratches and the original content sticker intact.

In addition to these specific bottles, Avon's Zodiac Star Signs cologne series, Disney's 'Small World' collection, and the 1970s Moonwind Bottles are also sought-after by collectors.

Avon's history

Avon, the oldest beauty company in the US, was founded in 1886 by David McConnell, a travelling book salesman. He decided to switch professions when he noticed that the women who answered the door were often more interested in the scent on his body than the books he offered.

McConnell incorporated the California Perfume Company, which changed its name to Avon Product Inc in 1939 following the success of its "Avon" perfume. The company expanded to include other cosmetic products such as aftershaves, bath oils, and lotions.

Avon's glass bottles have always been iconic, but the company began making an even bigger statement with their packaging by introducing figural bottles. These bottles were shaped like boots, cars, motorcycles, boats, trains, guns, clocks, animals, and humans. The first figural bottles were introduced in 1956 with the "Little Dot" cologne bottle, designed to look like a hatpin.

In the 1980s, Avon attempted to adapt to the demands of prestige from the average buyer by acquiring prestige perfume manufacturers and boutique brands. However, this shift led to the company winding down internal development in favour of external development from big oil houses. This resulted in some creative and award-winning fragrances but also some bizarre releases for both men and women.

Avon ceased to be a US-based company in 2016 after 130 years, moving to the UK and later Brazil. Today, Avon bottles, especially the vintage ones, are becoming popular among collectors.

Determining a bottle's value

The value of a vintage Avon bottle can range from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars. There are several factors that determine the value of vintage Avon bottles. Here are some tips to help you establish the value of your bottle:

Age

The age of the bottle is an important factor in determining its value. Avon bottles that are several decades old tend to be more valuable than newer ones. For example, pre-1965 Avon bottles are considered rare and highly valuable.

Rarity

The rarer an Avon bottle is, the more valuable it becomes. Unique or hard-to-find bottles will have the most value. For instance, the Avon Thomas Flyer 1908 bottle, inspired by the Thomas Motor Company's Model 35 automobile, is considered a rare car collectible and is valued at around $200.

Condition

The condition of the bottle plays a significant role in its value. A bottle that is in good condition and close to its original state will have a higher price. Here are some factors that can increase or decrease the value of the bottle:

• The presence of the original box or container can increase the value.
• If the bottle is unopened and still has its original content, it will be more valuable.
• Intact content stickers and legible markings on them can add to the value.
• The absence of scratches, cracks, and other signs of wear increases the value.

Color

The colour of an antique bottle can also affect its value. While clear glass bottles are common, coloured glass bottles, especially those with rare colours, can be worth more. For example, a coloured glass bottle can be worth $1000 more than a clear glass bottle.

Design and Shape

A bottle with an interesting or unique design, such as those inspired by historical events or figures, will generally be more valuable. Bottles with beautiful shapes or unusual sizes and shapes tend to attract collectors and have a higher value.

Historical Significance

Bottles created to commemorate a historical event or with some historical connection can be worth more. For instance, bottles with inscriptions or motifs representing a particular era or event can be valuable.

Incidental Items

Other factors that can add value to a bottle include its location, type of glass, notoriety, size, and unusual characteristics such as manufacturing mistakes or two colours of glass.

Where to find rare and valuable bottles

If you are looking to purchase Avon bottles for your collection, it is important to buy them from a reputable source. Here are some tips and places to find rare and valuable bottles:

Online Marketplaces:

• EBay: You can find a wide variety of vintage and rare Avon bottles on eBay. Look for listings that provide detailed descriptions and multiple photos of the item's condition.
• Etsy: Etsy is another great option for finding unique and vintage items. You can easily narrow down your search to find specific bottles and check seller reviews.
• Collector's Weekly: This website aggregates listings from various auction sites, offering a diverse range of options.

Antique Stores and Pawn Shops:

While these stores may not offer the best prices as they aim to resell for a profit, you can still find rare bottles. However, do your research beforehand to ensure you get a fair deal.

Online Auction Sites:

Online auction sites like eBay are excellent for selling individual bottles and getting the most money for your collectibles.

Specialized Auction Houses:

Marquee auction houses like Norman C. Heckler & Co., Glass Works Auction, and American Bottle Auctions host regular online sales featuring rare and valuable bottles. These auctions attract collectors worldwide and offer a wide range of options.

Social Media and Online Forums:

Engage with other collectors and enthusiasts on social media platforms and online forums. These communities can be a great source of information and sometimes even provide opportunities to buy, sell, or trade directly with other collectors.

Local Antique Shops and Shows:

Don't underestimate the power of scouring local antique shops and attending antique shows or exhibitions. You can often find hidden gems and connect with other collectors who share your passion.

Garage Sales, Estate Sales, and Flea Markets:

These can be treasure troves for rare and valuable bottles. Keep an eye out for sales in your area, and don't be afraid to haggle over prices.

Directly from Collectors:

Connect with other collectors, either online or through word-of-mouth. Sometimes, collectors may be willing to part with certain bottles in their collection or know someone who is.

Family and Friends:

You never know what treasures your family and friends might have tucked away. Ask around; you might be surprised at what you uncover!

Remember, when purchasing rare and valuable bottles, always do your research to ensure authenticity and verify the seller's reputation. Condition, rarity, age, and historical significance all play a crucial role in determining a bottle's value. Happy hunting!

Avon's most sought-after collectibles

Founded in 1886 by David McConnell, Avon has been producing collectible perfume bottles for many years. The company's "Avon ladies" sold these bottles door-to-door, and their unique and beautiful designs often came in limited editions, featuring a variety of subjects, such as animals, flowers, beauty objects, historical figures, and popular films.

Today, vintage Avon bottles are sought-after collectibles, with some pieces fetching high prices at auction. Here are some of Avon's most sought-after collectibles:

• Automobile Collection: Produced in the 1990s, these bottles were designed to look like classic cars and are made of both coloured and clear glass. They are valued between $100 and $500.
• Avon Bottle Rare Car Collectible: Inspired by the Thomas Motor Company's Model 35 automobile, which won the New York to Paris race in 1908, this bottle is shaped like an open-roof car with a detachable spare tire at the rear. It held 6 fl. oz. of Wild Country aftershave and is valued at $200.
• Rare Vintage Avon Wild Country Aftershave Blue Motorcycle: This rare blue motorcycle-shaped bottle held 5.5 fl. oz. of Wild Country aftershave and is valued at just under $200.
• 1960s Avon Charisma Perfume Full Bottle: A relatively simple bottle from the late 1960s or early 1970s, it stands out for its small travel size and rubber screw lid. It is valued at just north of $170.
• Avon Sweet Honesty Body Splash Full Bottle: This intricate, all-glass bottle from the 1970s to 1980s is valued at around $150.
• Avon Old Bottle Dog Shaped: Produced in the 1970s, this Alsatian dog-shaped bottle held 90ml of Tai Winds after-shave lotion and is worth around $100.
• Vintage Rare Avon Model A Wild Country Aftershave Bottle: Inspired by the 1928 Ford Model A, this bottle is shaped like an open-roof vintage car and held Tai Winds after-shave lotion. It is valued at just under $100.
• Vintage Avon Pony Wild Country Aftershave Horse-Shape Bottle: This unique bottle, shaped like a horse's head with a keyring in its mouth, held Avon Wild Country aftershave. It is valued at just under $100.
• Vintage Avon Fashion Figurine Gay Nineties Unforgettable Cologne Decanter: Inspired by the 1890s, also known as the "Gay Nineties," this bottle takes the form of a woman with manly biceps. It held 3 fl. oz. of Unforgettable cologne and is worth just under $100.
• Vintage Avon Big Mold Glass Train Aftershave Bottle: This rare train-shaped bottle held one of Avon's after-shave lotions and is valued at just under $100.

Frequently asked questions