Expert: Paul Wagner - 10/9/2007

Question
I have a 1 gallon bottle of Seagrams 7 that was a bar display/dispense bottle in the 60's. My guess is the value of it is the whiskey value in it but my son seems to think it is worth big bucks.
Who is right?
Thank you

Answer
HI Mike

If it is unopened, then it is just as safe now as when it was bottled.  whiskey has such a high alcohol level that it doesn't change in the bottle.  But the also means that it doesn't get any better--and doesn't gain much in value.  I would estimate this bottle as about $50.  Bear in mind that it is illegal for private individuals to sell alcohol in the USA.

You might get more value from a bottle collector.  Check out antiquebottles.com for a glimpse into that world.  But I only know about beverages, not bottles.

Sorry that I can't be the bearer of better news, but I lean towards your thoughts on this one...

Paul Wagner