Nostalgia is one hell of a drug – and it even extends to pining after the mundane, disposable things we once took for granted. Yes, people are now shelling out a fortune on old Tupperware sets, as we hanker for the days when a tight seal was the answer to all of life’s problems.
Hot on the heels of an unprecedented buying frenzy over old CorningWare – with some of those items raking in as much as $7,000 – there’s a rush on well-preserved Tupperware sets from the glory days of the brand, from the 1950s through to the 1980s.
According to Amy Sinclair at New Idea Food, experts say that the company’s Wonderlier and Servalier lines are particularly collectable, with full sets of both guaranteeing a pretty penny for those who have kept the plastic tubs in great condition. Hundreds of dollars are now changing hands on eBay and other auction sites, with well-stocked sellers raking in thousands.
Tupperware expert and collector Stacy Verdick Case tells New Idea Food the most popular Tupperware comes in the ‘Crystal’ colour, as the company still makes replacement lids. But the key factor for collectability is making sure what you have is authentic.
‘To authenticate any piece of Tupperware, look for a two-part number (its mould number) stamped somewhere on the product and make sure the word “Tupperware” is also visible,’ she says.
You might remember he Servalier range from your childhoods – the iconic colours varied from bright orange to avocado green and bright yellow.
Pastel-coloured Wonderlier bowls were a staple in many Australian homes, as were the ‘Startburst’ canister range, with their distinctive motif on the front.
Going back further in time, the ‘Millionaire’ range from the 1950s, notable for its pale pinks, greens, and blues, are a red hot collectors;’ items.
Hot tips to get the best price: look out for items where the cannisters and lids are fully matched, and still fit.
Happy searching in the back of your cupboards and grandma’s pantry!
Related stories
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
