81B Coke Machine Actual Value??

[barryra]

Could someone please give me an actual value of my above average condition Coke machine model 81B. I realize they are worth what someone will pay & they may be down because of the value etc etc etc but I hope it is worth more than 1,000. I don't think I am selling it at this point so everyone can just be honest.  I know this post will get the "I'm the smartest person in the room" comments  but I guess I can take it... thanks so much!! GREAT webpage!!

[SIGNGUY]

Your machine looks to have been modified a bit. It's got a bottle door medallion from an 81a machine for some reason (Green) instead of clear/white).  Overall outside from the photo's looks to be in good shape, hard to tell if there is any rust through along the belt line... Assuming there is not and the insdes are present and it runs/cools I'd say it's worth 1000-1500...

I've been buying them for between 600-1000 mark lately.. there are many out there available for 1500 on up , but they aren't selling... I made an offer on one the other day on Craigslist and the seller said he got an offer of 2200 for it... I told him to take it and laugh all the way to the bank as it was a great offer...

Just my opionion... all depends on where it's located, shipping options, etc... too and of course like you said... depends on what a person is willing to pay...

[coke_and_stuff]

Very nice machine, John hit the nail on the head with the current market value. But while were discussing the Medalion Ive personally seen several "B" Model 81s with green medalions. I've been told early ones got the green medalion. Every now and then you will see one like this one and some on ebay etc with green medalions. So did some originally come with green?

Joey

[barryra]

Thanks so much for your honesty guys!! I really appreciate it. I'm sorry if I came across a little defensive in the original posting.  Thanks again & I will keep your information in mind.

[Sodak Bob]

Don't forget location - In my part of the states there are very few machines - I couldn't touch an original complete 81b for less than $1500....

[loman4ec]

First welcome to the site. This is a great source of information and a great group of friends. What do you plan on doing to the machine? Are ou going to use it as is or restore it. You said your not selling it? How long have you had the machine. Just a fair warning these machines are addicting. For some reason once you buy one more keep following you home. If this is your first and you stick around here i but you will have several quickly 

[MoonDawg]

        As far as I am concerned, the 81B is the most desireable machine of all. Round corners,
large embossed letters, light in the bottle door and small coin mech.(easy to work on).
        I have never sold one for less than $6000.00 and wouldn't consider selling one unrestored for less. If the economy is influencing a buyer, let him buy a restored 39 or a square corner machine cheaper. The 81B will always hold it's value!
        You have a nice original Barry, it's a keeper

[barryra]

Ohhh great... now I don't know what to think... 1,000 to 6,000. I just plan on hanging onto it for now since it does look good in the house but I will keep your information in mind if I change my mind. THANKS AGAIN!!

[collecture]

Calm down Barry! $6000 is restored!
I have an original 81A I have paid close to $2000 total for, but replaced the liner, wiring harnes, fans, and T-stat.