The Coca-Cola Vendo 44: A Cool Piece of 1950s History by Brad Cross

The Coca-Cola Vendo 44 Soda Machine is a classic from the late 1950s. Known as the smallest upright vending machine ever made for Coca-Cola, it’s a favorite among collectors today. Let’s dive into what makes this machine so special, focusing on its production in 1958 and 1959.

Vendo 44 from the 1993 Soda Sweetheart Calendar

What Is the Vendo 44?

The Vendo 44 was made by the Vendo Company, a business started in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1937. This machine was designed to sell Coca-Cola bottles for just 10 cents. It was small, standing about 57.5 inches tall, 16 inches wide, and 15.5 inches deep, making it perfect for tight spaces like gas stations, corner stores, and drive-ins along places like Route 66. Despite its small size, it could hold up to 44 6.5-ounce Coca-Cola bottles or 40 12-ounce cans, which was a lot for such a compact machine.

The Look and Design

The Vendo 44 had a bright red and white color scheme with the famous “Drink Coca-Cola” slogan on it. Its round-top design and shiny chrome details gave it a sleek, 1950s vibe. It was fully mechanical, meaning it didn’t need fancy electronics to work—just pop in a dime, push a lever, and grab your ice-cold Coke from the slot. The machine also had a bottle opener on the front, so you could open your drink right away.

The small size made it stand out. Most vending machines back then were bigger, but the Vendo 44 could fit almost anywhere. That’s why it was so popular at small shops and busy spots where space was tight. It was built to last, with a sturdy metal body that kept bottles cold and ready to drink.

Why It Was a Big Deal

In 1958 and 1959, Coca-Cola was already a huge part of American life. The Vendo 44 made it easy for people to grab a Coke on the go. It was a self-serve machine, so customers didn’t need a clerk to get their drink. This was a big deal in the 1950s, when vending machines were becoming more common. The Vendo 44 brought Coca-Cola to more people in a fun, convenient way.

These machines were often found in cool places like diners, gas stations, and movie theaters. They became a symbol of the 1950s, a time when cars, rock ‘n’ roll, and soda fountains were all the rage. The Vendo 44 wasn’t just a machine—it was a piece of Americana.

Why Collectors Love It

Today, the Vendo 44 is scarce, especially ones with their original paint and parts. Collectors hunt for these machines because they capture the spirit of the 1950s. A well-kept Vendo 44 can be worth thousands of dollars, sometimes $5,000 or more if it’s been restored to look like new. Finding one with its original red and white paint is like finding a treasure, as many have been repainted or worn out over time.

People love the Vendo 44 not just for its look but for the memories it brings back. It reminds them of simpler times—grabbing a cold Coke on a hot summer day or hanging out with friends at a drive-in. Restored machines can still cool drinks, making them a fun addition to homes, garages, or game rooms.

A Piece of Coca-Cola History

The Coca-Cola Vendo 44 from 1958 and 1959 is more than just a vending machine. It’s a snapshot of a time when Coca-Cola was everywhere, and life felt a little more carefree. Its small size, bright colors, and simple design made it a hit back then, and its rarity makes it a gem for collectors now. Whether you’re a fan of Coca-Cola or just love 1950s style, the Vendo 44 is a cool piece of history that still brings a smile.