1965-66 Coca Cola Hockey Cards
When it comes to collecting vintage sports cards, hockey enthusiasts are no stranger to the 1965-66 Coca Cola hockey card set. These cards represent one of the most coveted and collected sets of hockey trading cards from the 1960s, and have retained a special place in the hearts of collectors and fans alike. In this article, we will explore the history, significance, and value of the 1965-66 Coca Cola hockey cards and what makes them so special.
History of 1965-66 Coca Cola Hockey Cards
The 1965-66 Coca Cola hockey card set was a promotional issue, distributed exclusively in Canada, by Coca Cola bottlers. The set consisted of 80 cards featuring players from the six NHL teams of the time: Boston Bruins, Chicago Blackhawks, Detroit Red Wings, Montreal Canadiens, New York Rangers, and Toronto Maple Leafs.
The cards were distributed in perforated panels of four, attached to the inside of six-pack bottle carriers. With the purchase of a six-pack of Coca Cola, customers could obtain a complete panel or rip the perforated cards apart to collect individual cards.
Unlike other hockey card sets of the time, the 1965-66 Coca Cola hockey cards did not include any statistics or biographical information about the players. The front of the card featured a full-color action shot of the player, while the back of the card displayed the Coca Cola logo and a brief description of the promotion.
Significance of 1965-66 Coca Cola Hockey Cards
The 1965-66 Coca Cola hockey card set is significant for many reasons. Firstly, it remains one of the few hockey card sets issued solely as a promotion by a soft drink company. Secondly, the set includes some of the most iconic hockey players of all time, including Bobby Orr, Gordie Howe, and Jean Beliveau.
Furthermore, the cards are highly sought after by collectors due to their scarcity. The method of distribution, through perforated panels, made it difficult for collectors to obtain pristine examples of individual cards, as they were often damaged during the process of separating them from each other.
Value of 1965-66 Coca Cola Hockey Cards
The value of 1965-66 Coca Cola hockey cards varies greatly depending on the condition and rarity of the card. Cards in top condition can fetch thousands of dollars at auction, while cards with damage or wear may only be worth a few dollars.
According to PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator), the world's largest third-party authentication and grading company, the most valuable card in the 1965-66 Coca Cola hockey card set is Bobby Orr's rookie card. In 2016, a PSA-graded 9 Bobby Orr card sold for $18,000 at auction.
Collecting 1965-66 Coca Cola Hockey Cards
Collecting 1965-66 Coca Cola hockey cards can be a fun and rewarding experience for hockey enthusiasts and collectors alike. To get started, it is important to understand the condition and rarity of the cards.
It is also advisable to purchase a price guide or consult with an expert to ensure that you are paying a fair price for the cards. Many collectors also prefer to collect complete sets rather than individual cards, as this can provide a sense of accomplishment and a more complete picture of the set as a whole.
Conclusion
The 1965-66 Coca Cola hockey card set represents a truly unique and significant piece of hockey memorabilia. These cards have retained their value, scarcity, and desirability among collectors for over 50 years, and continue to fascinate and inspire hockey enthusiasts and card collectors alike. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a curious hockey fan, the 1965-66 Coca Cola hockey cards are a must-see piece of hockey history.