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Jill from Cranston RI asks: I have this 1940s Coca-Cola metal tray that I purchased at a tag sale. I got it for $5.00 because the owner said he thought it was a reproduction because it's in such new condtion. I don't care if it is because I like it anyway, but can you tell me for sure if it's a copy? If I'm lucky and it's not, how much is it worth?

AW says: I've gots some good news Jill, Your tray is authentic, I'm sure of this for a few reasons.

As far as I know, this particular Coke tray was not reproduced.

Most Coke items that are new are "fantasy" items rather than reproductions, a completely new design, fashioned to look like an antique. With a little bit of training you can identify these a mile away. But outright copies of Coca-cola trays, fakes, are not that common in the marketplace and are fairly easy to spot. The picture quality will be very poor upon close inspection.

With the newer trays and legitimate reproductions, there is a fine print right along the edge of the rim that will give the date and maker of the item. This is a requirement of a US trade law.

The photo you've sent clearly shows the vibrancy of the colors and tones Coke used for these wonderful old trays. You just don't get the same kind of detail with fakes. It's just not cost prohibitive to make a copy that's as nice as the "Real Thing", excuse the pun.

Because yours is in such good condition, I'm going to put a retail value on it of about 150-225 dollars. You can usually find these at about 45 to 75 dollars at flea marets etc, because they have much wear and most likely surface rust.

Coca-cola is the most recognized brand in the world and this item is a classic, classics hold value and usually increase in value because of high demand.

Oh, one more thing before I forget, your tray is from the 1950s not the 40s.

Thanks for your question, and by the way, thanks for sending it with a nice clear picture, that really helps me to do a better job.