For the purpose of this listing, the following guide-lines will define a can as a SODA CAN.

        1. The label must be painted on the can.  Paper labels are generally excluded.
        2. Carbonated, non-carbonated, and juice cans are included.      
        3. Canned wines and near beer cans are included.                 
        4. Non-filled soda related cans are included.

BRAND NUMBER

A "Brand Number" is composed of two parts and is assigned to each brand of soda can.

EXAMPLE:  C 940 is the brand number for Coca Cola where C is the first letter of the brand name, and 940 is the number assigned to the brand 

GENERATION NUMBER

A generation is defined as an alteration of the label resulting in a noticeable change among cans of the same brand.

GENERATION NUMBER is three digits in length and follows the BRAND NUMBER.  Other characteristics of the GENERATION NUMBER signify  different TYPES of cans as follows:

REFERENCE NUMBERS

When the BRAND NUMBER and the GENERATION NUMBER are combined, the resulting number is called a "Reference Number" which when used with a  FLAVOR will accurately define one specific can. 

DATE

The "DATE" shown will be the most accurately known time period when the can was sold or distributed.

VALUE

Like any antique collectable, can values are based on their relative rarity and fluctuate widely on a "Supply vs Demand" basis.  The can  values in this book are only suggested values and are certainly subject to change.  Always keep in mind that a can's value is determined by the buyer and not the seller.

DESCRIPTION

A word description of the cans label is used to more accurately define each generation of can.  Portions in quotes (") are shown as  written on the can label.

(1)= BRAND NUMBER- A unique Number assigned to each different Brand    

(2)= BRAND NAME- The Name most prominent on the Can

(1)= CANNER- The Name of the Canner of the Beverage                    

(2)= CITY- The Location of the Canner                                  

(3)= STATE- The Location of the Canner 

"11.5 OZ  340 ML"

(1)= BRAND NUMBER                                                      

(2)= GENERATION NUMBER- Any alteration of the label resulting in a noticeable change among cans of the same brand name.

(3)= BRAND NAME                                                         

(4)= TOP- (C= Cone Top, P= Punch Top, T= Tab Top, S= Snap Top)         

(5)= DATE- Approximate Date Can was Sold.                              

(6-7-8)= CONTENTS CODE                                                  

(9)= VALUE- Estimated value of can in "GRADE 1" Condition              

Value of a can is very sensitive to the GRADE which defines  the physical condition of the can.  The grading system for cans ranges from MINT to GRADE 5, and is defined as follows:

GRADING SODA CANS

GRADE VS VALUE CHART

DESCRIPTION- A word description of the can's label.  Portions in quotes are actually written on the can label.

(11)

(1)= PICTURE- Picture of can with flavor shaded in yellow. 

(2)= FLAVOR- Flavor of drink                                            

(3)= LOCATION- Collection found in or first reported by.   SODA MART COLLECTION noted with an "X"

(4)= COLOR- Brand Name                                                 

(5)= COLOR- Flavor                                                      

(6)= COLOR- Major Background                                           

(7)= COLOR- Minor Background          

X

TN