You ask, "Can I have that can when you're done with it?" That's what I did earlier today.
I am used to the funny looks. I am used to explaining that I have a can collection. I am used to the awkward silence after asking someone for their trash. But it's that awkwardness that helps them think of me the next time they have a can in their hands. I have had the conversation about my collection with several people that have come back to me at a later time with another can and asked if I have that one yet. I think it makes people feel good when they feel like they've contributed.
So if you're ever in public and someone comes up and asks if they can "throw that can away for you when you're done," it just may be me you're talking to.
Hi, I'm starting a pop can collection. I only have a mountain dew, a dr. pepper with Erin Rhodes, a sprite, and a fanta orange. I would like to know exactly how many different ways you get your new cans, other then asking people as I know no one who drinks pop from a can. THANKS
ReplyDeleteThe quickest way to grow a collection is visit eBay. You can buy specific cans or bid on a collection of various cans. I've won quite a few auctions at eBay. You can also join forums at www.therustybunch.com or www.canmuseum.com and go to the buy/sell forums there. Forums are also a great place to make contacts with other collectors for trading. I've got a few regular traders and we watch for cans for each other. It helps to have the extra eyes, especially in different parts of the country or ever a different country. Most people I know are now aware of my collection, so friends and family often save cans for me. And I'm not above pulling the car over and picking up cans on the side of the road (those get an extra thorough cleaning). And I go to a lot of flea markets and antique stores. I often find special collector cans at places like that, but they can be a bit pricey sometimes. And although my family doesn't really drink soda, I'll still buy a 6-pack or 12-pack if I see a really cool can in a store. Or you can let others collect for you... get in good with the owner of a restaurant or bar and ask to go thru the empty cans they save for recycling. Or someone who just picks up cans to recycle. Save up some trade cans and offer them 3 cans for every one you take of theirs. I think the new building my job is moving to has bins for cans, so you can bet I'll be checking those out on a regular basis. Join the National Pop Can Collectors, they have a newsletter where you can advertise or watch for local can shows in your area. I've bought cans on Craiglist before. You can usually talk down the price pretty low one-on-one like that if they're really desperate to get rid of their cans. I have done all of the above and that's how I've collected nearly 3000 cans in two years. Good luck. If you're interested in doing a little business with me, drop me a line at munemud@yahoo.com
DeleteThank you, Mune Mud!
DeleteI too have that question. How do you obtain your new cans? Also, how do you get some of the ones that aren't too old, like the 2008 olympic Coke can?
ReplyDeleteFunny, this came in as I was replying to the first comment. See my previous reply. If you're looking for specific cans, I'd post on the forums I mentioned. If no one can help, then check eBay. Once you get into the can collecting community you'll start to learn who collects what. Start an Excel file of contacts that includes their email, physical address (if you do trades with them) and the brands they specialize in. A list like that helps immensely when doing future can business!
DeleteWow, those are some great tips, Thanks.
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