Honoring the True Authority on Vintage Coca-Cola Machines: Jeff Wright, "The Man" by Brad Cross

In the world of vintage Coca-Cola machine collecting, the term "The Man" carries a weight of reverence, reserved for the individual who stands as the foremost authority in the field. Over the years, many legendary figures—such as Pop Poppenheimer, Jeff Walters, and Steve Ebner—have left an indelible mark on this niche hobby. Yet, time has seen these icons either pass on or fade from the spotlight. Today, one name rises above the rest as the definitive expert: Jeff Wright. To earn the title of "The Man," one must possess not only decades of experience—30 years or more in the hobby—but also a quiet confidence that requires no self-promotion. While newer collectors, whom I affectionately call "rookies," may seek to impress with their knowledge, the true authority's expertise runs so deep that what they’ve forgotten surpasses what others will ever learn. As someone who has been immersed in this hobby for nearly 36 years, I consider myself a novice in the presence of such a figure. That figure is Jeff Wright, co-author of the seminal work Vintage Coca-Cola Machines: A Price and Identification Guide to Collectible Coolers and Machines. Jeff’s contributions to the field extend far beyond his literary achievements. A successful businessman, devoted family man, and remarkably humble individual, Jeff embodies the essence of a true pioneer. His encyclopedic knowledge of vintage Coca-Cola machines is matched only by his remarkable collection. Jeff Wright’s legacy is not built on boastfulness but on a quiet authority that commands respect from collectors worldwide. His passion, expertise, and contributions have solidified his place as the preeminent figure in our community. Today, we celebrate Jeff Wright—not just as a collector or historian, but as "The Man" who continues to inspire and guide the vintage Coca-Cola machine hobby.