Home >> Collecting >> Antiques

How to Find a Key for Older Coke Machines

Since the creation of Coca-Cola in 1886, Coca-Cola or "Coke" related products and memorabilia have attracted the attention of collectors all over the world---with vintage Coke machines one of the most sought after and collectible of items. Featured in restaurants, homes and showrooms, Coke machines make a statement about both the owner and the period in American history from which the machine came off the production line and went into use. Like other vending machines, Coke machines use a secure lock-and-key door system to protect against theft of merchandise. As with any similar system, keys can become lost or broken and require replacement.

Instructions

- 1
  Check with a locksmith. Locksmiths often collect various old keys and may have the right key for your machine. A locksmith can also provide you with an estimate to replace the old key with a new custom-made one. Even if you want an original key to go with your vintage machine, a custom-made key can at least provide you with the means to lock your machine until you track one down.
- 2
  Contact Coke machine repair shops or dealers. Coke machine repair shops and dealers typically keep on hand copies of keys for various models and years.
- 3
  Visit antique malls or flea markets, which may have among their vendors Coca-Cola collectors who buy, sell and trade. Even if you cannot find the right key for your Coke machine, these vendors may refer you to someone who has one.
- 4
  Place an advertisement in the "Wanted" section of your local news classifieds, online or in Coca-Cola memorabilia, collector or other related trade publications. Make certain that the advertisement contains the model of your machine and its production year or the make and model of the lock.
- 5
  Join a free or fee-based Coca-Cola or Coke machine collectors club or group to learn more about your machine and to network with people in your area or online that may have your key. One example, The Coca-Cola Collectors Club (see Resources), has national and local club chapter contacts lists.

Antiques