Additional Coverage:
- 10 Rare Prohibition-Era Artifacts That Collectors Value (wealthgang.com)
From Sneaky Flasks to Sterling Silver: Prohibition-Era Collectibles Fetch Top Dollar
The Prohibition era, a time of clandestine cocktails and speakeasy secrets, continues to fascinate. Items from this period, whether used by those upholding or defying the law, are now highly sought-after collectibles. Let’s take a look at some of the most valuable Prohibition relics recently sold at auction:
- Hidden in Plain Sight: A bootlegger’s briefcase, discreetly concealing flasks for easy transport of illicit liquor, sold for $800. These clever cases allowed the clandestine carrying of alcohol in public, right under the noses of the authorities.
- A Subtle Warning: An official U.S. Bureau of Prohibition porcelain sign, likely displayed at checkpoints and border crossings, also fetched $800. Its understated design makes one wonder if it was meant to be easily overlooked.
- The Cocktail Connoisseur’s Bible: A first edition of the Savoy Cocktail Book, penned by legendary bartender Harry Craddock, sold for $800. Craddock, an American bartender who fled to London during Prohibition, compiled 750 cocktail recipes in this iconic book.
- Whiskey on Prescription: A 1930s prescription for whiskey, a testament to the era’s unique medicinal loopholes, brought in $650. During Prohibition, a doctor’s note was your only legal access to liquor.
- Liquid Gold: A bottle of 1933 Old Taylor Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, still in its original box and marketed for medicinal purposes, sold for a remarkable $1,800. Well-preserved bottles from this era are highly prized by collectors.
- Badges of Honor: A collection of Prohibition inspector badges and related memorabilia, including newspaper clippings, commanded $1,600. These badges offer a tangible connection to the law enforcement side of the Prohibition story.
- A Toast to the Past: A rare, pre-Prohibition Anheuser-Busch serving tray fetched an impressive $3,200. While serving trays are relatively common Prohibition memorabilia, rarity drives value.
- The Secret Bar: A Monterey-style, red-painted bar cabinet, complete with hidden compartments and disguised drawers, sold for $8,500. This piece of furniture is a testament to the ingenuity of the time.
- Silver Service: A sterling silver cocktail set from the Prohibition era, originating from a Baltimore estate, achieved $2,750. Such elegant sets are highly coveted by collectors.
- A Pre-Prohibition Brew: A single, unopened bottle of Fitzgerald’s West India Ale, a relic from before the dry days began, sold for $3,400. This highlights the significant value placed on unopened bottles of pre-Prohibition and Prohibition-era alcohol.
Read More About This Story:
- 10 Rare Prohibition-Era Artifacts That Collectors Value (wealthgang.com)