Trash or Treasure: Vernors items very collectible

Mike McFarland explained to appraiser Brian Thomczek that he picked up two unusual lamps at an estate sale. “I got them both at an estate sale,” McFarland said during a recent Trash or Treasure appraisal day at the Michigan Design Center in Troy. “I don’t remember what I paid, but I don’t usually pay much.”

McFarland and his wife, Julie, brought several items to the event hoping to learn more about them. Among the pieces were the two lamps, which McFarland believed might be midcentury modern. When they first bought them, he recalled they were heavily coated in nicotine residue. The couple had paid just $2 each.

After examining them, Thomczek had some disappointing news. The lamps were not as old as the couple thought. He explained they were made of plexiglass with brass accents and likely dated to the late 1970s or early 1980s, designed to imitate earlier styles.

He noted the design includes influences from both art deco and mid-century styles. Thomczek also pointed out the small niches near the base of the lamps, joking that they could hold almost anything. They may have originally been intended for pens or other small items.

If the lamps had truly been mid-century pieces, their value would have been higher. As decorative items from the late 1970s or early 1980s, however, Thomczek estimated they would likely sell for about $60 to $80 for the pair. He added that while they are unusual and visually interesting, their auction value remains modest. Someone who enjoys décor from that era might still appreciate them.

The couple received more encouraging news about another item they brought: a wooden crate marked “Vernor’s Ginger Ale” and “James Vernor Company, Detroit, U.S.A.” The crate was likely used to transport the well-known Detroit ginger ale created in 1866 by pharmacist James Vernor. Now branded as Vernors, it is the oldest surviving ginger ale in the United States, and related memorabilia is popular with collectors.

After looking it over, Thomczek confirmed the crate is an authentic antique. He told the couple that collectors enjoy vintage crates, especially those connected to Vernors. He also praised the condition of the piece, describing it as original and appealing.

Thomczek estimated the crate could sell for $100 to $150 at auction. He added that it might bring even more in the Detroit area, where interest in Vernors memorabilia is strongest. The couple recalled paying $10 for it at the estate sale.

He described the crate as old, decorative, and rustic, noting that vintage crates are often repurposed in modern homes for storage or display. Although it was a bit dirty, Thomczek said gently cleaning it would not harm its value.