Expert: Paul Wagner - 1/5/2010

Question
I have read your frequent statements that liquor does not increase in value. However, I wonder about a bottle of Seagram's V.O. Pure Rye Whiskey with seal intact that states "certified manufactured in the year 1912." It came from my in-laws home in upstate New York. My husband tells me (repeatedly) that it is valuable! I am trying to find out if that is true.  

Answer
HI Ann

You are correct, that the whiskey inside this bottle won't have changed much over time, and won't have appreciated much in value, either.  But bottle collectors might well be interested in the package, and that's a whole different ball of wax.

I would contact the guys at antiquebottles.com.  They specialize in collecting and evaluating old bottles, and I am sure they could help you with this one.

Thanks for your inquiry!

Paul Wagner