Old Owl Avon Cologne Bottles: Worth A Fortune?

Avon bottles, particularly the vintage ones, are popular among collectors. The older the bottle, the more valuable it is. The most collectible Avon bottles sell for $500, while most vintage bottles sell for $99 to $200 and more common ones sell for up to $50. Avon bottles produced in the 1970s, mainly featuring angels and cars, with some animals, have average prices ranging from $50 to $100, although rare designs have sold for more. The Mickey Mouse cologne bottle, for instance, is worth up to $400.

Factors that determine the value of Avon bottles

Several factors determine the value of Avon bottles, and they can be summed up as follows:

Rarity

The rarer an Avon bottle, the higher its price. For instance, the Avon Mickey Mouse cologne bottle with spring legs is one of Disney's first licensed merchandise, and due to its original Disney license and composite body, it is the most expensive Avon bottle, valued at $300–$400.

Condition

The condition of the bottle is another significant factor. Bottles in excellent condition, with no chips, cracks, or fading, will be priced higher than damaged ones. For example, a 1950s Cranberry Perfume Bottle in good condition, but not amazing, is valued at $126.

Original Product

The original product inside the bottle can also impact its value. Bottles with rare or discontinued fragrances or products are more desirable to collectors. A 1970s Queen Perfume Bottle in mint condition, with its original sticker and perfume intact, is valued at $1,130.

Packaging

The original packaging that the bottle came in can also influence its value. Bottles with their original boxes, tags, or labels typically fetch a higher price. A 1981 Sweet Honesty Perfume Bottle, in mint condition, with its original sticker and perfume, is priced at $166.

Age

Older Avon bottles tend to be more valuable than newer ones. Vintage Avon bottles from the 1930s to the 1960s are considered more valuable. A 1950s Cranberry Perfume Bottle, though not in perfect condition, still holds value due to its age.

Design

The design of the bottle can also impact its value. Unusual designs from the 1970s, such as the queen of hearts, are particularly valuable. The 1970s Blue Lamp Bottle Collection, a set of three blue glass bottles shaped like tiny lamps, is priced at $175.

Authenticity

Authentic Avon bottles should have a mark or logo somewhere on the bottle. The presence of stamped Avon logos, stickers, capacity marks, and ingredients on the base can indicate authenticity.

Where to sell old Avon bottles

Old Avon bottles are highly sought after by collectors, and their value depends on factors like rarity, condition, age, and whether they still contain the original product. If you're looking to sell your old Avon bottles, here are some places to consider:

Online Marketplaces:

• Etsy: A popular marketplace for second-hand and handmade products that attracts many collectors. It's a great platform to reach collectors directly and showcase your bottles to a broad audience.
• EBay: A well-known second-hand marketplace suitable for selling less valuable bottles to a global customer base. You can list your bottles on eBay and benefit from its wide reach.
• Ruby Lane: A vintage marketplace that caters to serious sellers. To list your items on Ruby Lane, you need to offer a minimum of 10 products simultaneously.
• Amazon: Amazon's vast customer base includes collectors and enthusiasts interested in Avon bottles.
• Sotheby's: This platform caters to a high-end audience and could be suitable for rare or valuable Avon bottles.

Local Options:

• Flea Markets: Flea markets provide an opportunity to connect with vintage antique collectors and enthusiasts in person. You can interact with potential buyers, showcase your bottles, and even get them professionally valued.
• Vintage Antique Collectors: Selling directly to vintage antique collectors is another option. You can research local collectors or attend antique shows and events to find potential buyers.
• Auction Houses: Local antique auction houses are a great way to sell your Avon bottles to collectors in your area. They can help you reach the right audience and facilitate the selling process.

When selling your old Avon bottles, it's beneficial to research the rarity and production year of your bottles, as this information can impact their value. Additionally, ensure that you provide detailed descriptions and high-quality images when listing your items online. Good luck with your sales!

Where to buy Avon bottles

If you're looking to buy Avon bottles, there are several online marketplaces you can try. Here are some options:

Etsy

Etsy is a great place to start your search for Avon bottles. With over 1,000 relevant results, you're sure to find a variety of options. When buying on Etsy, it's important to only shop from verified sellers with good reviews and to carefully examine all the photos provided.

EBay

EBay is another excellent site for finding Avon bottles. You can find various rare and vintage Avon bottles on eBay, including lot sales, which are great for collectors or those looking to resell. As with any online purchase, be sure to check the seller's reputation and carefully review the item's condition before buying.

Ruby Lane

Ruby Lane is a vintage marketplace that's perfect for serious sellers and buyers. While it may have fewer listings than Etsy or eBay, it's still worth checking out, especially if you're looking for something specific.

Amazon, Sotheby's, and Other E-commerce Platforms

In addition to the sites mentioned above, you can also try your luck on Amazon or Sotheby's, as suggested by antiques expert Judith in her article on AntiquesKnowHow.com. These sites may have a smaller selection, but they are worth checking nonetheless.

Flea Markets and Antique Collectors

If you prefer to see the bottles in person before buying, consider visiting flea markets or contacting vintage antique collectors directly. This option allows you to inspect the bottles for damage and authenticity and may also give you the opportunity to get a professional valuation.

Happy hunting!

Who buys old Avon bottles?

Avon bottles are bought by collectors and vintage dealers looking to resell. Most bottles are considered vintage rather than antique, so they are more likely to be purchased by private buyers than antiques dealers. Collectors tend to buy Avon bottles as novelty items, and because they are often sold in sets, they can make good gifts.

Collectors can buy Avon bottles from antique shops, pawn shops, and directly from vintage antique collectors. However, they can also buy them online from sites like Etsy, eBay, and Ruby Lane. As a buyer, purchasing bottles in person is preferable as it allows for an assessment of the product's damage and authenticity. When buying online, it is important to only shop from verified sellers with good reviews, and to carefully assess all images provided.

If you are looking to sell your old Avon bottles, you could consider selling them at a flea market, to a vintage antique collector, or online.

Are Avon bottles worth money?

Many people collect vintage Avon bottles, making them quite popular and causing them to fetch high prices at auction. The most collectible Avon bottles can sell for $500, while most vintage bottles sell for $99 to $200 and more common ones sell for up to $50. As time goes by, these prices may increase.

Avon bottles are valued based on their rarity, condition, and historical significance. The most valuable bottles feature unique designs, including everything from a chess set to Little Miss Muppet.

• The Avon Gay Nineties Decanter, worth $5–$40, is the only cologne bottle with a feminine figure and masculine biceps.
• The Avon Mickey Mouse cologne bottle with spring legs is one of Disney's first licensed merchandise with unique spring legs and a pie-eye design. It is valued at $300–$400.
• The 1970s Queen Perfume Bottle is one of the less extravagant designs but is in mint condition and verified by an Etsy seller who deals in antiques. It is currently priced at $1,130.
• The 1981 Sweet Honesty Perfume Bottle is a great example of a valuable Avon bottle that doesn't have an overly extravagant design. It is in mint condition and still has the original sticker on the bottom and the original perfume inside. It is priced at $166.
• The 1950s Cranberry Perfume Bottle is in good condition and is currently valued at around $126. It features a metal flip-open top rather than a glass stopper.
• The 1970s Blue Lamp Bottle Collection is a set of three blue glass Avon bottles created to look like tiny lamps. The set is priced at $175.
• The 1970s Snail Avon Bottle Collection is another set of three Avon bottles manufactured in the 1970s. The snails are small, only 17 cm tall each, but they are valuable due to their uncommon shape. The full set is priced at around $146.
• The 1970s Crane Vintage Avon Perfume Bottles are in great condition and are likely to have been stored away, possibly by an ex-Avon lady. They are mostly still full of the original perfume, which contributes to their high price.
• The Canadian Goose Valuable Avon Cologne Bottle is in like-new condition and is currently selling on eBay for around $44. It also comes with the original box, adding to its collectability.
• The 1960s Vintage Stanley Steamer Avon After Shave Bottle is one of the most sought-after car-shaped bottles by collectors. It can be purchased for around $10.
• The Vintage Avon Bell-shaped Perfume Bottle is a rare perfume bottle with a blue bell-shaped crown and long, grooved silver handles. It is available in clear glass and cobalt blue and is valued at an average price depending on the color.

Frequently asked questions