Vendo 39 estimate

I saw a classified add for a Vendo 39, 1951.  It has the red and white paint scheme and is not restored.  Has some scratches in the paint.  Works great, only one chrome trim piece missing.  Just looking for a fair value on this machine for me to make an offer.  He is asking $1800 which seems high.

thanks,
Rich

[Jim]

Hello Rich,

His asking price is high.
Would you say the machine has been repainted recently or does it seem old...? If the year of manufacture is correct, then this model should have "Ice Cold" embossed along the bottom of the cabinet door and should actually be an "All Red" machine. However, Coca-Cola did repaint machines starting in 1956 to meet their new look, Red and White Machines/Coolers...
What would be the chrome piece that is missing? You stated a trim piece. The only part that is chrome on this version of a V-39 would be the coin return cup. If in fact there is trim along the red & white paint line, then someone has added this sometime ago...
Can you possibly post a photo or two?
Does the coin mech accept nickels and dimes?
At what price does it vend a bottle?
Unless the machine needs absolutely no work at all, I would offer around $900 - $1300, With the latter price being a very clean, complete and functional machine.

[Eric]

Seems there are 39s on eBay all the time for around $900...
I just missed one here in Missouri at a antique store, complete for $800.....
$1800?!'>.... too high for something you're gonna have to put $$ into.
For something unrestored and missing a few pieces....
For me... $800-900

Eric

Jim - I asked about the color as well.  He said it was currently red and white, but that they had been recalled at some point and time and had the white top added to match their new paint scheme.  As far as the trim piece, he said it was a chrome piece that was around the coin slot or something.  I have never paid much attention to these models in the past but the drum mechinism interests me now a days.  I have a large Vendo 126 in my garage that I picked up for $75.  A new thermostat and it works awesome.  I am looking for something in my basement to go with the rest of our coke collection.  I figured at his asking price it had been restored but when he said no I thought it was high as well.  I am looking at a good price to offer.  I will get some pics this week.

Eric - thanks for the estimate as well.  I checked eBay first but due to the size and shipping costs I wasn't too sure that those prices reflected what they were really worth.  Many large items don't sell as well on there unless you run into two locals who get to bidding.  I agree though, his asking seems high.  I am going to go look at this week.  I am not looking for a restoration project though, I enjoy the "authentic"  '> on them.  Also, reading on here that 80,000 were produced, it seems these should be pretty common?

thanks,
Rich