Expert: Paul Wagner - 9/13/2011

Question
First thanks for your help.

I have a Bols unopened small pottery bottle. On the back it says Bols V.O Genever made for the American Armed Forces Band
Amsterdam June 21st 1951.

Does this have any value?

Thanks again,
Carroll

Answer
HI Carroll

The liquid inside doesn't have much value at all.  Distilled spirits like this are so high in alcohol that they don't chnage much, for better or for worse, over time. And that means that they don't appreciate in value the way some fine wines do. This one wouldn't be worth more than about $15 on the basis of the gin.

But the bottle may be more interesting than the liquid.  You might check with the guys at antiquebottles.com.  They are very helpful, and the real experts on collectible bottles.

Hope that helps

Paul Wagner