Gehman Auction Delivers Vintage Americana With Surprising Results

Gehman Auction's online sale of vintage coin-op machines and memorabilia drew strong bids, proving the enduring appeal of nostalgic Americana.

The recent auction specializing in coin-operated machines and advertising memorabilia has reaffirmed the growing demand for nostalgic Americana. Conducted entirely online in January 2025, the sale featured 349 curated lots, including vintage Coca-Cola memorabilia, rare Western-themed posters, mechanical vending devices, and hybrid advertising curiosities.

What made this Gehman Auction particularly notable was not just the variety of items, but the unexpectedly high hammer prices on several lots—proof that collectors are actively investing in pieces that combine history, design, and brand legacy.






Poster Power: Wild West Takes Center Stage

The showstopper of the auction was undoubtedly a 1929 linen-backed poster for the “Miller Bros. 101 Ranch Real Wild West” show. With an initial estimate of just $150 to $250, bidding quickly escalated, and the poster eventually sold for $1,968. Rich with dramatic imagery—cowboys, Native American performers, and early rodeo scenes—the poster struck a nostalgic chord with bidders looking for museum-worthy wall art.

Coca-Cola Collectibles Crush Estimates

Coca-Cola items are a staple at any vintage collectibles event, and this auction proved why. One standout was a mid-century Coca-Cola gumball machine adorned with the Sprite Boy mascot and a classic Coke bottle. It sold for an impressive $1,353, smashing its $200 high estimate.

Also noteworthy was an illuminated Coca-Cola advertising clock in a radiant starburst design. Though modestly estimated, it exceeded expectations with strong bidding and added visual appeal to the catalog’s advertising section.

Advertising Meets Utility

One of the more unique offerings from the auction was a Boston Idea cigar-cutter lamp, a table lamp with a built-in cigar cutter from the early 1900s. The lamp’s brass construction and built-in branding turned it into a rare hybrid object—equal parts functional and collectible. It sold for $923, reflecting increased collector interest in early branded merchandise with cross-category appeal.

A vintage Art Deco nut vending machine also made waves. With its elegant dual-coin design and clear glass compartments, the machine brought in $400, highlighting a revival of interest in coin-op Americana.

Upcoming Sales to Watch

Following the success of this auction, the company continues to list new themed sales, including a Vintage Toy Auction, a Coin & Currency Auction, and a Mixed Collectibles Event featuring advertising signs, sports memorabilia, and classic tools. All sales are live on HiBid, where registered bidders can participate from any device.

As highlighted by Auction Daily, in an age where online auctions dominate the collectibles market, Gehman Auction continues to carve out a niche with well-curated sales, standout results, and a strong connection to America’s past through objects that tell unforgettable stories.





Arely Fiddler

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