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Coca-Cola items are in demand

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TREASURES & TRENDS

Q: In one of your columns published last November, you referenced a 1954 AMI jukebox and mentioned an individual to contact for restoration work. I own a Coca-Cola vending machine from the early 1950s that needs some outside and, perhaps, interior work to bring it back to vintage condition. Can you refer me to someone in the Tucson area who is capable of this type of restoration work? – B.H. & F.A.R., via e-mail.

A: Appliances Plus does the type of restoration you require. Currently, the company has more than 500 antique and vintage stoves and refrigerators in its inventory. According to Rich Allen, restoring your Coca-Cola machine can be done at their local shop, with the work taking between six and eight months depending on condition and any parts that have to be manufactured or ordered. The contact information for Appliances Plus is 5020 E. Speedway Blvd., 326-6849, www.antiquevintage appliances.com. There is a restored Coca-Cola machine in the Speedway showroom and is featured on the company’s Web page.

Coca-Cola items are among the most popular collectibles in America. A new and updated edition of Petretti’s Coca-Cola Collectibles Price Guide by Allan Petretti has just been published by Krause and features the latest values for calendars, trays, signs, clocks, periodical advertising, bottles, toys and coolers. This comprehensive guide has more than 4,500 images of Coca-Cola collectibles with current values. Petretti is considered one of the foremost authorities on Coca-Cola memorabilia and his guide is the most complete, up-to-date information available. It is published by Krause and retails for $49.99.

Q: I am breaking up an estate and need the services of a good appraiser in the Houston, Texas, area. Can you help me? – Theresa, Tucson

A: To find a certified appraiser in the United States, I recommend two sites: Appraisers.org and www.appraisersassoc.org. Locally, William Illig is a seasoned appraiser who specializes in household items. His telephone number is 885-0181.

Q: I have a banjo that has been in my family since the Civil War-era. Where can I have it restored? – Bill, Tucson

A: Paul Blumentritt owns The Folk Shop in Tucson and is one of the region’s experts at repairing and restoring acoustical instruments. His address and telephone number are 2525 N. Campbell Ave., and 881-7147.

FIND OF THE WEEK

This nifty mid-century canister set is $25 at Annabell’s Attic, 6178 E. Speedway Blvd.

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