Kelly's Old Cabin bitters bottle to top $75,000 at American Bottle Auctions?

An extremely rare Kelly's Old Cabin bitters bottle from 1863 is expected to see remarkable results in an antique bottle sale in California on August 19.

Keelys old cabin bitters bottle green

A rare green variation of the collector's favourite, it is one of two that were discovered in a well over 40 years ago, along with a collection of the widely-available amber and olive-green examples.

When first taken for appraisal, the green variant's rarity caused the auctioneer to dismiss them as fakes.

Rated 9 out of 10, the since-verified bottle at auction is said to be in much better condition than its partner, and is expected to bring between $35,000-75,000. An amber version of the bottle typically sells for around $6,000.

"The Kelly's Old Cabin bitters is the undisputed heavyweight champ in this auction, but there are many other rare and exciting bottles that collectors will get excited over," said Jeff Wichmann of American Bottle Auctions.

An aqua blue Chalmer's Catawba wine bitters bottle, made in 1872 and featuring an embossed picture of Sutter's Old Mill in California, will sell with a pre-sale estimate of $7,000-15,000 as the auction's second most valuable lot.

Elsewhere, one of the sale's most unusual lots will be provided by a Wm Bodmann Cathedral pickle jar, which is thought to be the first of its kind made in the US. Produced circa 1842, the 11 inch tall jar is graded 9.9 out of a possible 10, and is expected to make $5,000-10,000.

Paul Fraser Collectibles brings you all the latest news and expert advice from the world of collecting. For a round-up of the best collecting articles and some great investment advice, sign up to our free weekly newsletter. 

Featured products

Elvis Presley Authentic Strand of Hair
Elvis Presley Authentic Strand of Hair
Sale price£399
In stock
Fidel Castro signed certificateFidel Castro Signed Certificate
Fidel Castro signed certificate
Sale price£2,995
In stock
King Henry VIII Autographed DocumentKing Henry VIII Autographed Document
King Henry VIII Autographed Document
Sale price£55,000
In stock