Our Featured Collector is Ray Kilinski.

How long have you been collecting Coca-Cola® items?

I started collecting Coca-Cola memorabilia in the early 1970’s. My mom was an antique collector of Carnival and Depression glass among other things. I used to go with her to antique shows and flea markets in upstate New York. My first find was actually a stack of 1950’s Menu girl trays…all in mint condition…and for free! From then on I was hooked! Friends and family members would give me old Coke items that they had in their garages or basements. Because in the early 70’s, collecting Coke memorabilia hadn’t really caught on yet so a lot of items were easy to come by or cheap to buy. I remember buying a 1960’s mint tin sign for $35…in 1986!

How long have you been a member of The Coca-Cola Collectors Club?

I’ve been a member since 1996. I moved to Florida in 1989 and just happened to come across the national convention swap meet that was being held in Orlando in 1992 I believe. But I never joined then. It wasn’t until 1995 that I read a small ad in the local Penny Saver about joining the Central Florida chapter. That’s when I officially joined and attended my first convention in Reston, VA in 1996. And I haven’t missed a national convention since! My only regret is not joining earlier since I’ve been a Coca-Cola collector since the 1970’s.

Are you a member of any chapters?

As I said, I became a member of Central Florida chapter in 1995. Since joining, I’ve held the position as Publications Director for a few years and tried to stay active and involved since joining.

What's your favorite piece, and how did you find it?

My Vendo 44 machine. Acquired it in the early 1990’s from a man in Orlando. I think I paid $1200 for it. It’s all original and in working condition. It’s not mint, but that’s okay with me. I actually prefer items that are slightly used, dented, scratched… used for their intended purpose as opposed to New Old Stock. I feel it adds character to the item. I wonder who leaned against my machine in the 1950’s.

What advice would you give to a new collector?

Do your research when purchasing vintage Coca-Cola items as there are a lot of reproduction, fake and questionable items out there. And don’t be turned off by expensive prices as there are a lot of items, vintage items that can still be bought on a limited budget, like paper items (cups, blotters, magazine ads, checks, employee publications, cardboard cartons…), bottles, calendars… Also be on the lookout for 1970’s items…which will become the next “wave” in Coca-Cola collecting. Items from 1970 are already 40 years old…but still easy to find and purchase. Buy Petretti’s Coca-Cola Price guide and join the Coca-Cola Collectors Club!