Avon's Men's Cologne Collection: Valuable Or Overpriced?

Avon's men's cologne collection may be valuable to some, particularly those who are avid collectors of vintage Avon bottles and decanters. The value of these items depends on their rarity, condition, and age, with older and rarer pieces in better condition generally commanding higher prices.

Avon has a long history of producing collectible perfume bottles, and their men's cologne bottles are no exception. The company began selling perfume in novelty containers as early as 1886, and these unique designs have become cherished collectibles over time. While the majority of Avon bottles sell for relatively low prices, ranging from $10 to $20, some rare and vintage pieces can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars on the secondary market.

Collectors of Avon men's cologne bottles may be particularly interested in those with unique shapes or designs, such as those modelled after cars, animals, or pop culture icons. Additionally, bottles that are still full and unopened, have their original packaging, and are in good condition with minimal scratches or cracks, will likely be more valuable to collectors.

If you're looking to buy or sell Avon men's cologne bottles, platforms like Etsy, eBay, and Collector's Weekly are good places to start. These sites allow you to connect with other collectors and dealers and provide a platform to research the value of specific bottles.

The value of Avon bottles

Age

The older an Avon bottle is, the more valuable it tends to be. Bottles from the early to mid-20th century often command the highest prices, with some of the earliest bottles from the 1900s to 1920s being extremely rare and valuable.

Rarity

Limited edition bottles or those produced for a short time are typically more sought-after than mass-produced designs. Bottles sold exclusively in certain geographic markets can also be rarer and more valuable.

Style

Novelty bottles modelled after cars, animals, and pop culture icons are popular with collectors. Unique shapes, colours, and intricate details or embossing can increase a bottle's value.

Condition

As with any antique, condition is crucial. Bottles that have retained their original paint, labels, packaging, and contents are generally more valuable.

Trends

Nostalgia is a significant driver of demand in the collectible market. For example, Avon bottles from the 1950s and 1960s are popular with Baby Boomers, while those from the 1970s to 1990s are becoming more sought-after by Gen X and Millennial collectors.

• 1969 Avon Stanley Steamer Car Decanter: Up to $3,500. One of Avon's rarest automobile-shaped designs, modelled after a 1906 Stanley Steamer, with only a few known to exist.
• 1970s Avon Volkswagen Beetle Decanter: Up to $2,500. A bright yellow VW Bug-shaped decanter that was a fan favourite in the 1970s.
• 1964 Avon Jaguar XKE Roadster Decanter: Up to $1,500. A detailed model of a Jaguar XKE sports car in silver and navy blue.
• 1968 Avon Galloping Horse Decanter: Up to $1,200. One of Avon's earliest and most detailed horse figurine bottles, produced only in 1968.
• 1965 Avon Train Locomotive Decanter: Up to $1,000. A green glass locomotive-shaped bottle offered by Avon in 1965, making it a rare find.
• 1970s Avon Bald Eagle Decanter: Up to $900. A patriotic bottle in the shape of an American bald eagle, perched on a branch, was popular in the 1970s.
• 1987 Avon Mrs. Albee Award Porcelain Decanter: Up to $800. A limited edition bottle, shaped like Avon's Mrs. Albee sales award, presented only to top sales representatives in 1987.
• 1930s Mickey Mouse Cologne Bottle: Sold for $358.50 in 2006. This spring-legged Mickey Mouse design is one of Avon's most valuable cologne bottles due to its early Disney connection.
• 1970s Disney 'Small World' Bottles: Typically sell for around $100-$200 for a multi-piece collection. A set of eight beauty bottles, each featuring one of the characters from the 'Small World' ride, with only the cologne bottles made of glass.
• 1980s Little Blossom 'Whisper' Kids Cologne: Can sell for upwards of $200. A travel-sized perfume called 'Whisper' from Avon's Little Blossom line, designed for young girls, is a novelty in the fragrance space.
• 1960s Avon Pipe Decanter: A three-piece pipe decanter used for Avon's "The Uncollected" men's cologne in the 1960s. A full set in top condition has sold for $400.
• 1970s Avon Zodiac Star Sign Bottles: Comparatively cheaper, these simplistic black fragrance bottles featuring zodiac signs in gold typically sell for $15-$50 individually or as a complete set.
• 1970s Moonwind Bottles: While individual bottles may not be worth a lot, large, unopened, or partial collections of the entire beauty product line can sell well at auction.

While these are some of the most valuable Avon bottles, the market is dynamic, and values can fluctuate over time. Additionally, half the fun of collecting is in the thrill of the hunt, so happy scavenging!

The age of Avon bottles

Avon's story began in 1886 when founder David H. McConnell started selling books door-to-door, offering customers a free bottle of perfume with each book purchase. Soon, McConnell's homemade scents became more popular than the books, prompting him to shift his focus to fragrances and establish the California Perfume Company, later renamed Avon.

Over the years, Avon bottled its scents in exquisite figurine glass bottles, often designed by renowned artists such as Rene Lalique. These early Avon bottles, dating from the 1900s to the 1920s, are now highly sought-after collectibles, with some rare pieces fetching hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

The key factors that determine an Avon bottle's worth are age, rarity, style, condition, and trends. Older bottles from the early to mid-20th century tend to be the most valuable, especially those that were limited edition or produced for a short time. Novelty bottles in the shape of cars, animals, and pop culture icons are also highly coveted by collectors.

Avon bottles with unique shapes, colours, and intricate details can command higher prices. Additionally, bottles that have retained their original paint, labels, and packaging are more valuable than those with wear and damage, and those with the original perfume inside are especially prized.

Nostalgia also plays a significant role in the value of Avon bottles, with pieces from the 1950s and 1960s being very popular among Baby Boomers. As a result, Avon bottles from the 1970s to the 1990s are becoming increasingly sought-after by Gen X and Millennial collectors who fondly recall these designs from their youth.

Among the most valuable Avon bottles are the 1969 Avon Stanley Steamer Car Decanter, the 1970s Avon Volkswagen Beetle Decanter, and the 1964 Avon Jaguar XKE Roadster Decanter. These rare automobile-shaped bottles can sell for up to $3,500, $2,500, and $1,500, respectively.

Other notable mentions include the 1968 Avon Galloping Horse Decanter, the 1965 Avon Train Locomotive Decanter, and the 1970s Avon Bald Eagle Decanter, each reflecting the popular culture of their respective eras and valued at up to $1,200, $1,000, and $900.

Avon's vintage bottles, with their playful and innovative designs, have become cherished collectibles, offering decorative objects and keepsakes that continue to captivate collectors worldwide.

The rarity of Avon bottles

Avon bottles have been collectible items for many years, with unique and beautiful designs, often in limited editions. The company began selling perfume in novelty containers in 1886, and these playful designs have become cherished collectibles. Some rare Avon bottles can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars on the secondary market today.

The earliest Avon bottles, dating from the 1900s to 1920s, are extremely rare and command the highest prices among collectors. These exquisite figurine glass bottles were often designed by famous artists like Rene Lalique. As Avon grew over the 20th century, it continued to innovate with creative bottle designs, such as novelty containers shaped like cars, trains, animals, bells, and lanterns. Many Avon bottle designs reflected the popular culture of their time, making them highly sought-after by collectors.

Age plays a crucial factor in determining the value of Avon bottles. Generally, the older an Avon bottle is, the more valuable it becomes. Bottles from the early to mid-20th century tend to be the most prized possessions for collectors. Rarity is another essential aspect, with limited-edition collections or short-production runs being more desirable than mass-produced designs.

The style of the bottle also influences its worth. Avon's novelty bottles, modelled after cars, animals, and pop culture icons, are the most popular with collectors. Bottles with unique shapes, colours, and intricate details tend to be worth more. For instance, the 1969 Avon Stanley Steamer Car Decanter, one of Avon's rarest automobile designs, can fetch up to $3,500. Another example is the 1968 Avon Galloping Horse Decanter, produced only in 1968, which can sell for up to $1,200 in top condition.

The condition of the bottle is also a key factor in determining its value. Collectors value Avon bottles that have retained their original paint, labels, and packaging more highly than those with wear and damage. Bottles with their original perfume intact are also considered more valuable. For instance, the 1960s Avon Charisma Perfume Full Bottle, with its intricate gold detailing and original content, can be worth up to $180.

Trends and nostalgia also influence the value of Avon bottles. For example, Avon bottles from the 1950s and 1960s are very popular with Baby Boomers who fondly remember them from their childhood.

Collectors are willing to pay a premium for rare and valuable Avon bottles, making them a wise investment for those with an eye for beauty and a keen interest in the brand's history.

The condition of Avon bottles

The condition of an Avon bottle is a key factor in determining its value. As with any antique, the better the condition, the more valuable the item will be to collectors.

When assessing the condition of an Avon bottle, it is important to check for any cracks, chips, or damage to the glass or porcelain. Ensure that the label or decoration is intact and in good shape. Fading or peeling of painted details can also decrease the value.

In addition, bottles that have retained their original paint, labels, and packaging are considered more valuable than those with wear and tear. Collectors also prefer bottles that still contain the original perfume, provided that the scent is still pleasant.

The presence of the original box can further enhance the value of an Avon bottle. However, it is important that the box is also in good condition, free from dirt, fading, crumpling, or bending.

When buying or selling Avon bottles, it is crucial to provide detailed and accurate descriptions of the condition, as this will impact the price and desirability for collectors.

Where to find and sell Avon bottles

Avon bottles, with their playful and creative designs, have become cherished collectibles. The brand began selling perfume in novelty containers in 1886, and these bottles have now become decorative objects and keepsakes.

If you're looking to find or purchase Avon bottles, here are some places to consider:

• Estate sales, garage sales, and flea markets: You can often find vintage Avon bottles at local sales and markets. These can be great places to discover hidden gems at affordable prices.
• Thrift stores: Thrift stores like Goodwill are another excellent option for finding Avon bottles at bargain prices.
• Antique malls and vintage stores: Exploring antique malls and vintage stores can lead you to some unique and rare Avon bottle finds.
• Online marketplaces: Websites like eBay and Etsy offer a wide variety of Avon bottles for sale. You can find everything from vintage perfume bottles to novelty-shaped cologne decanters.
• Live auction houses: Auction houses, both online and in-person, provide opportunities to bid on and purchase rare Avon bottles.
• Avon collector conventions and events: Attending collector conventions and events specifically focused on Avon products can be a great way to connect with other enthusiasts and find unique bottles.

When buying Avon bottles online, be sure to review photos carefully and don't hesitate to contact the seller for additional information or pictures. Check their reviews and return policies before placing an order.

If you're looking to sell your Avon bottle collection, the above venues provide excellent options. For rare and valuable bottles, consider consulting an expert appraiser to help you price your items appropriately before putting them up for sale.

Tips for Selling Avon Bottles

To get the most out of selling your Avon bottles, here are some additional tips:

• Condition is key: Ensure your bottles are in the best possible condition. Look for any cracks, chips, or damage to the glass or porcelain. Original paint, labels, and packaging will also increase the value.
• Original perfume: Bottles that still contain the original fragrance are often preferred by collectors, as long as the perfume hasn't turned.
• Know the market value: Research similar Avon bottles online and through collector guides to understand the current market value. This will help you price your bottles competitively.
• Target the right audience: Consider selling your bottles through platforms specifically targeted towards collectors, such as collector groups on Facebook or dedicated collector websites.
• Be patient: Collecting Avon bottles is a hobby for many, and it may take time to find the right buyer for your collection. Don't be afraid to hold out for a fair price.

Frequently asked questions