My Coke Can Collection

I’ve been collecting Coke cans since 1986, just as Coke was transitioning between New Coke and Coke Classic.   I wanted to snatch up a few of the “old cans” before they were all gone.  I think that part of why I like collecting them is that I am saving a moment in time.  Even if it’s just a consumable, throw-away item like an empty Coke can, it still represents something. 

Some of my favorite cans are from those early days – my teenage youth.  I just have to show someone the Coke can with “New Coke” written on it and I can spark a memory or a story from that person.  Everyone who remembers that time in 1985-86 has an opinion on the formula change.

I can pick up any can in my collection and (hopefully) remember the person who gave it to me.  I remember the fellow who brought me a 12-pack of cans with Santa Claus on them.  I remember the friend who brought me a Coke can from China.  Another colleague from work went to Italy for a holiday and brought me back a colourful, cool-looking can promoting a soccer match.

So maybe it’s because they are so common that makes them special.  We all used them to quench a thirst, and then tossed them.  But to hold one again in your hand, it can bring back a lot of memories.

What do you think?