Coca-Cola

Coca-Cola was first served in 1886 in Atlanta, Georgia. John Pemberton, an Atlanta pharmacist, invented Coca-Cola when he combined a mysterious, dark liquid with carbonated water. It was advertised through signs, newspaper ads, coupons, bottles, trays, calendars, and even lamps and clocks. Collectors want anything with the word Coca-Cola, including a few rare products, like gum wrappers and cigar bands. The famous trademark was patented in 1893, the Coke mark in 1945. Many modern fantasy items and reproductions have been made. For more information, explore our identification guides for advertising and bottles.