A metal plaque depicting a pretty girl sold for $ 12,390, which is an impressive price for a portrait of a young lady from the 1910s! But if you take a closer look, you will see that the woman is holding a glass marked “Coca-Cola” and the Coca-Cola logo is visible at the bottom of the frame. It’s not really a framed painting; it is a self-framed pewter lithographed sign. Coca-Cola collectors around the world may recognize her as Elaine, the company’s 1916 calendar girl.
Terry Kovel and Kim Kovel answer readers’ questions sent to the column. Send a letter with a question describing the size, material (glass, pottery) and what you know about the item. Include only two pictures, the object and a close up of any markings or damage. Make sure your name and return address are included. By submitting a question you are giving full permission to use any Kovel product. Names, addresses or e-mail addresses will not be published. We do not guarantee return of photographs, but if a stamped envelope is included, we will try. The questions you answered will appear in Kovels Publications. Write to Kovels, (The Daily Times), King Features Syndicate, 628 Virginia Dr., Orlando, FL 32803 or email us at collectorsgallery @